First practice, then preach: BJP on Naveen Patnaik's absence in Odisha Assembly

Targeting the Leader of Opposition (LoP) Naveen Patnaik over imparting training to new MLAs, the state unit of the BJP said the BJD chief never practices what he has preached to his party’s new MLAs. 

According to the BJP, when Patnaik was the Chief Minister, he habitually skipped the proceedings of the Assembly. As a LoP, he is still doing the same. He has been conspicuous by his absence in the second phase of the ongoing budget session.  

“He, who remains absent from Assembly, has advised his MLAS to be punctual in attending Assembly. What the new legislators will learn from him?” asked the BJP. 

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“It would be better if he along with his MLAs comes to the Assembly regularly,” said government chief whip, Saroj Pradhan. 

Responding to the BJP’s criticism, BJD MLA Pradeep Dishari said, “He is not coming to the Assembly may be due to his health issues or busy schedule. But I would like to say he as the Leader of Opposition is guiding us well.”

Naveen was seen only for some days in the first phase of the budget session. However, he has not come to the Assembly since the commencement of the second phase of the session on August 20. 

Political analysts opined he should set an example for his MLAs by going to the Assembly regularly. 

“If one doesn’t discharge his duty properly as a Chief Minister or a LoP, his preaching to others is meaningless. Naveen Babu is giving training to his new MLAs. But, his performance was questioned on several occasions,” said political analyst Prasanna Mohanty.