Outrage as Odisha minister makes officer tie his shoelace, says ‘I am VIP’

Bhubaneswar: Odisha Cabinet Minister Jogendra Behera faced criticism from different quarters after his personal security officer (PSO) was seen tying his shoelaces during Independence Day celebration in Keonjhar on Monday.

Behera was the chief guest in the Independence Day celebration at the district headquarter town of Keonjhar and hoisted the tricolour. After unfurling the national flag his PSO was seen tying his shoelaces.

I am a VIP. I've hoisted the flag here; he (PSO) has done that (tied the sandal strap): Odisha Min. Yogendra Behera pic.twitter.com/elrldh7NlJ

— ANI (@ANI) August 16, 2016

After local news channels aired the video, the state Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises minister said, “I am a VIP. I have hoisted the flag, he (PSO) has not done it.”

#WATCH: Odisha Minister Yogendra Behera makes PSO tie his sandal straps in public in Kendujhar, says 'I am a VIP'https://t.co/yB0ZUslWxt

— ANI (@ANI) August 16, 2016

The incident and subsequent statement of the minister faced criticism from many quarters including the civil society members.

“A government employee tying shoelaces of the minister shows existence of British rulers’ mindset in Odisha,” said Prahallad Singh, an advocate.

There was no comment by the government on the incident.