BJD president Naveen Patnaik targets BJP on Biju Jayanti, BJP hits back

The legacy of the eminent statesman Biju Patnaik took centre stage as the Opposition leader and BJD supremo Naveen Patnaik lambasted the BJP government during Biju Jayanti celebrations at Forest Park in Bhubaneswar on Wednesday. 

While paying tributes to Biju Patnaik, the BJD chief Naveen articulated his concerns over the omission of the recognition of Panchayati Raj Day.

What is the reason of such a decision to change the Panchayati Raj divas celebrations from March 5 to some other date, questioned Naveen Patnaik, adding that governments will come and go, but Biju Babu will remain in the hearts of the people.

Naveen criticised the lack of acknowledgment for a day historically observed since 1993 and highlighted grievances over attempts to rename notable entities, including sports awards and the airport. He brought attention to the vandalism of Biju Babu's statue, expressing discontent that no action has been taken against those responsible.

Also Read: Odisha CM Mohan Majhi invites LoP Naveen Patnaik for Biju Patnaik birth anniversary celebration

Naveen posed challenging questions to the BJP whether they can close significant industrial and educational establishments like the Paradip Port, Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL), National Thermal Power Corporation (NTPC) Talcher, and the National Institute of Technology (NIT) Rourkela. He accused the current administration of engaging in politics marked by a narrow-minded approach.

Naveen praised the contributions of Biju Patnaik, from establishing the Panchayati Raj system to advocating for a 33% reservation for women. He recalled Biju Patnaik's role in Odisha’s development and international contributions, such as supporting Indonesia's independence struggle and the UNESCO Kalinga Award.

Naveen also underscored that attempts by people to rewrite history will get a befitting reply from the people. He affirmed that Odias will continue to hold Biju Patnaik in high regard, with a deep sense of pride.

BJP Responds to BJD Chief’s Statements

Responding to the statements of the Opposition leader Naveen Patnaik, Panchayati Raj department Minister Rabi Naik accused the BJD of betraying Odisha's values. Nayak underlined the importance of raising voices in support of Odisha's identity. He pledged that as long as his party is in power, they will honour the state’s eminent personalities and leaders.

Allegations of Weakened Rural Governance

Naik accused the previous BJD government of betraying the ideals of the late Biju Patnaik by curtailing the authority of sarpanches. This action, Nayak argued, has weakened rural administration and fostered discontent among grassroots supporters, contributing to the current state of affairs within the BJD.

“Till our government is in power, we will give respect to legendary figures. Biju Patnaik wanted to strengthen the Panchayats. I have seen that the previous government was indulged in snatching powers of sarpanches and not following the proposals of gram sabhas,” said Niak.