Ruling BJD’s Malkangiri MLA, Manas Madkami was recently in news when TV visuals of him being carried by his support across a water-logged stretch in his constituency were beamed in homes across the state. The young tribal leader was accused of betraying feudal tendencies even though he protested innocence saying that his supporters had done so willingly and it was an expression of their love for him. However, stung by the allegation he has eversince been working overtime for the development of his constituency, known as a Maoist bastion. Even his rivals concede that his develop, metal drive including a mass contact programme has been a success. “In a way it’s good that he took the criticism to his heart and has started working seriously for the welfare of the people,” said a BJD leader.
