Questions raised over Naveen Patnaik's absence at Biju Patnaik birth anniversary celebration despite invitation from CM

Questions were raised over the absence of the Leader of the Opposition Naveen Patnaik in the birth anniversary celebration of Biju Patnaik organised by the Odisha government at Jayadev Bhawan in Bhubaneswar on Wednesday.

Naveen didn't attend the program, though he was specially invited for the event by the Chief Minister Mohan Majhi. The development has reportedly sparked curiosity among the attendees.

Despite Naveen's absence, the event witnessed the presence of prominent figures, including both the Deputy Chief Ministers and senior leader Prafulla Ghadei.

Naveen lambasts BJP

Earlier on the day, Naveen had lambasted the BJP government during the Biju Jayanti celebrations at Forest Park in the Capital City. The Leader of the Opposition expressed his concern over the omission of the recognition of Panchayati Raj Day. 

Naveen questioned the reason behind the decision to change the Panchayati Raj divas celebration date from March 5 to some other date. He also said that Biju Babu will remain in the hearts of the people.

Naveen also questioned 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.

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

In response, Panchayati Raj Department Minister Rabi Naik accused the BJD of betraying Odisha's values. 

Earlier, a couple of days back, the Odisha government had delinked Biju Patnaik's birth anniversary from Panchayati Raj Divas and declared that March 5 will not be observed as a holiday in the State.

However, the government clarified that while March 5 will no longer be a public holiday linked to Panchayati Raj, Biju Patnaik’s birth anniversary will still be commemorated with cultural and political events.