Bhubaneswar, Jul 18 (IANS): The Congress on Saturday alleged that the Biju Janata Dal (BJD) led Odisha government is trying to find ways to siphon off public funds amid the COVID-19 crisis in the state.

Pradesh Congress Committee (PCC) president Niranjan Patnaik said that after corruption in the procurement of personal protective equipment (PPE), now the BJD leaders and government officials have siphoned off Compensatory Afforestation Management and Planning Authority (CAMPA) funds.

While Congress exposed the corruption in medical procurement, the BJD government didn't take any action, he alleged.

"PPE kits for corona warriors in Odisha have also not been purchased as per the guidelines of union government. It is a shameful act," said Patnaik.

"Now, another scam has surfaced! In September 2019, Odisha received Rs 6,000 crore under CAMPA that aims to promote afforestation, regeneration of degraded forests and protection of wildlife," said the Congress leader.

He said BJD politicians and government officials have siphoned off CAMPA funds by depositing and withdrawing money using fictitious accounts.

"At a time when entire Odisha is reeling under COVID-19, it is shameful how BJD is trying to find ways to do corruption and siphon off public funds," he added.

The PCC president said Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik must take stern actions against those who are behind this scam.