Indications of financial strain within the Odisha Pradesh Congress Committee have become apparent amidst its efforts to finalise candidates for both Lok Sabha and Assembly constituencies across the state.

With the Congress’s coffers frozen and the imposition of a notice by the income tax department, the Odisha unit has requested prospective candidates to submit a cheque of Rs 50,000 to the party. The funds, if their candidacy is confirmed, will be allocated towards procuring campaign materials for their respective campaigns.

Committee president Sarat Pattanayak said: “Shortlisted candidates must bring a Rs 50,000 cheque issued in favour of Odisha Pradesh Congress Committee. The committee will provide branding material of equivalent value to them.”

“This is a kind of security deposit which will be returned to aspirants, who don’t get tickets eventually. There is no denying we are facing financial constraints because of the strong-arm tactics being used by the BJP-led NDA government at the Centre. We have to make our own arrangements,” said a senior party leader.

The resolution to request cheques amounting to Rs 50,000 from each candidate was made during the party gathering convened in Puri on Friday, aimed to scrutinise the applications of ticket hopefuls. All applicants were extended invitations to take part in the Puri session.

According to sources, certain candidates have already submitted the required funds. But, this decision has provoked discontent among a faction of leaders, who argue that it will impose undue financial strain on the candidates and tarnish the party’s image. “Not many people understand the complex issue of freezing party accounts by the I-T department. They may think that the party has become bankrupt,” said a senior party MLA.

Nevertheless, a segment of the leadership staunchly supported the decision, contending that it would not only foster a conducive environment, but also deter non-serious candidates from vying for contention.