2024 battle: Politics heats up in Odisha as BJD, BJP and Congress set Durga Puja resolutions

It is that time of the year when not only people but political leaders and parties take special resolutions on Durga Puja. This year’s puja is also no different as the three political parties- the BJD, BJP and the Congress in Odisha have come up with special resolutions ahead of the crucial 2024 battle.

The Saffron party claimed that people will kill scores of ‘Mahishasuras’ in BJD and the BJP will come to power in Odisha this time. Similarly, the Congress has resolved to throw both the PM Narendra Modi-led government at the Centre and Naveen Patnaik-led BJD government here in Odisha out of power.

The ruling BJD, on the other hand, claimed that their party is in the hearts of the people and the Opposition parties' claims hold no significance.

Meanwhile, the political leaders were seen hopping several puja pandals to seek the blessings of Goddess Durga. While Union Minister Dharmendra Pradhan was spotted in Sambalpur, the state BJP president visited puja pandals in Cuttack.

“In our country, a new era to empower women and ensure women-led development has started through the resolve of Prime Minister Narendra Modi,” said Pradhan.

Former Barabati-Cuttack MLA Debasish Samantaray said, “Women signify power and through puja pandals, we get this message. We also want empowerment of women."

Odisha Pradesh Congress Committee (PCC) President Sarat Pattanayak also visited puja pandals in Cuttack while Congress MLA, Tara Bahinipati sought blessings of the Goddess in Jeypore.

“I have sought blessings of the Goddess to fulfil all the desires of the people of Odisha. We also want to create a new Odisha so that its lost pride is restored. It will only happen with the blessings of the Goddess and if Congress comes to power here,” said PCC President, Sarat Pattanayak.

BJP leader, Surath Biswal said “BJD chief or the party is not in a position to take decision and action and it is reflecting on governance. People have taken a resolve to change the government. The Odia community which has taken a back seat will take centre stage in the coming days.”

Congress MLA, Suresh Routray said, “Both PM Narendra Modi and CM Naveen Patnaik-led governments are saddled with wrongdoings like Mahishasura and both governments need to be changed to restore peace. We have pledged to reach out to every household across the State by holding a massive programme on October 27.”

BJD MLA Amar Satpathy said, “We will pray to Goddess Durga as nothing happens without her blessings. As far as our state is concerned, Naveen Patnaik has taken a lot of steps to preserve our culture and heritage and ensured good governance here. There is no problem for Naveen Patnaik to come to power for the sixth term.”