Bhubaneswar/Raipur, Feb 8: Former Chhattisgarh Minister and sitting Konta MLA Kawasi Lakhma has chosen Odisha’s border district of Malkangiri as his temporary base after the Supreme Court barred him from entering Chhattisgarh, officials said on Sunday.

The apex court granted him interim bail on February 3 in connection with alleged liquor scam cases but restricted his presence in his home state except for court proceedings.

Arriving in Malkangiri on Saturday, Lakhma was welcomed warmly by local Congress leaders and workers. He later met with the district Congress president and other party leaders to discuss local issues. Addressing the gathering, he pledged to adhere strictly to the Supreme Court’s conditions and said he would use his stay to understand the challenges of the region and remain connected with its people.

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The Supreme Court’s order came in two separate cases filed by the Enforcement Directorate and Chhattisgarh Police, relating to alleged irregularities in the state’s liquor trade. Lakhma was arrested by the Economic Offences Wing on April 2, 2025, and had been lodged in Raipur Central Jail until his bail was granted.

Lakhma’s relocation has generated enthusiasm among Congress workers in Malkangiri, who expressed happiness at having a senior leader in their midst. The development also highlights the political significance of Odisha’s border districts, now serving as the temporary base for one of Chhattisgarh’s prominent tribal leaders.