Bhubaneswar, Nov. 23: Opposition parties have alleged that the ruling BJD, which organised a students' convention in the city today, defied prohibitory orders imposed on the stretch between AG Square and Rabindra Mandap Square that covers the Secretariat and the Assembly.

They alleged that BJD processions moving towards the convention spot at Martyrs' Ground passed through the prohibited zone. Some ministers and legislators were allegedly seen leading the rally through this route. The police have prohibited assembly of five or more persons in the area under Section 144 of the Criminal Procedure Code (CrPC).

Opposition Congress accused the police of being lenient with the ruling party. "The law should be equal for everyone. While the police in the recent past had arrested agitating farmers, who were demonstrating against a hike in paddy price, for defying prohibitory orders on the stretch, hundreds of supporters of the ruling party enjoyed a free ride today," said state youth Congress president Rajat Choudhury.

BJP leaders also slammed the ruling party disrespecting the law. "The way in which the legislators and ministers took out huge rallies defying the orders only describes the arrogance of the party. The police should have equal law for all parties," said state BJP Yuva Morcha president Umakant Patnaik.

In December 2013, the cops had arrested more than 20 members of Navnirman Krushak Sanghathan after they had defied the prohibitory orders and tried to come in the way of chief minister Naveen Patnaik near AG Square.

However, the ruling party leaders denied the allegations. "We have never asked anyone to take out a rally in the area. As I was walking to the venue, the supporters followed us voluntarily and I cannot prevent anyone from accompanying me," said sports and youth affairs minister, Sudam Marandi.

The Congress also criticised the police for detaining five leaders of the National Students' Union of India (NSUI), including its president of NSUI, Itish Pradhan, on the eve of the convention. The cops, however, said that the detention was a preventive measure.

On the other hand, the police said that the supporters of the ruling party took the stretch to reach the venue and did not have any intention of creating any trouble.

"We are still looking into the matter and if any one is found guilty of defying orders, notices would be served on them," said deputy commissioner of police Satyabrata Bhoi.