BJP targets CM Naveen for virtual presence in Budget; BJD defends

State BJP president Samir Mohanty on Sunday launched a broadside at Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik, stating his foreign tour during the Monsoon Session is not a good omen for the democracy. 

In a series of tweets (in Odia language), Mohanty lashed out at the CM. 

In a tweet, Mohanty said the Chief Minister taking part in the session on virtual mode is not a good sign for the democracy. “It would be better if he, considering the Assembly’s tradition and importance, had planned his foreign trip before or after the session. His absence in the House during the session is not acceptable,” Mohanty said. 

In its reaction, the ruling Biju Janata Dal said there should not be any controversy regarding the Chief Minister’s overseas trip. 

“I think the State BJP president is not aware of the fact that for the larger interest of the country, Union ministers including the Prime Minister also go on an emergency foreign trip. Similarly, the Chief Minister is going on an overseas trip for the interest of the State and, I think, all should welcome it instead of making it controversial,” said BJD MP Amar Pattanayak.

Notably, the Monsoon Session of the State Assembly will start from July 2 and will continue till August 4. The budget for 2022-2023 financial year is likely to be presented on the first day of the session.