Soumya Ranjan Patnaik’s veiled attack on Odisha govt; questions true meaning of development

After remaining away from media glare following quitting the post of editor, Khandapada MLA Soumya Ranjan Patnaik on Wednesday launched a veiled attack on the Odisha government after a brief gap. Patnaik, who had earlier fired salvos at the state government on various issues, today slammed the government’s tall claims for development by questioning if construction of roads and buildings is development.

While talking to reporters on the sidelines of the Janaki Jayanti event in Khordha, Patnaik said, “There have been a lot of works in Odisha. But development in the name of roads and buildings is not enough. The development of personality and language is also an important aspect of development. There is a dearth of self-respect among Odias. The Odia pride is missing among the youths as they are bowing down before leaders.”

When asked about the Puri Srimandir Parikrama Project inauguration, Patnaik said, “I have not visited Lord Jagannath Temple since 2015 after the Bramha Parivartan fiasco. Journalists have created confusion in my mind whether the Lord is original or fake.”

On Contesting Election When asked about whether he will contest the upcoming election, Soumya Ranjan Patnaik said, “I have not decided whether to contest polls in 2024. Perhaps I may not contest as I have no party and newspaper now. I have decided to quit the editor post after seeing the nature of journalism. Who will tolerate it if an FIR is lodged over fake issues.”