Bhubaneswar: Ahead of the 2019 general polls, the BJP, along with its look-east policy, is planning a new strategy to increase its foothold in Odisha.
According to sources, party chief, Amit Shah who is scheduled to visit Odisha on July 1 will be specially focussing on 21 assembly constituencies under three designated Lok Sabha parliamentary constituency areas and meet the respective office bearers of the party from these places. Sources said Shah has new matras up his sleeve and will also review the progress reports on the previous assignments at the grassroots level.
According to sources, Shah is likely to visit Odisha every two to three months and meet panchayat representatives across the state in a phased manner.
Terming the move necessary, the Odisha unit of BJP said that the State Government has been hijacking Centre's schemes.
"Shah's programme is aimed at taking the Central programmes to the doorsteps of public. The very people at the grassroots who keep working for our party will apprise Shah how benefits of numerous schemes implemented by the Union Government are being hijacked. Party chief will infuse new enthusiasm among party workers" said Odisha BJP Vice President, Sameer Mohanty.
On the other hand, the ruling-BJD responded with party spokesperson Amar Satpathy saying "Those who are levelling such allegations neither have any idea about implementation of projects in Odisha nor they want development. We are sure that they will not be successful in their mission."
BJP sources said even though Shah does not have any general meetings planned this time, he will hold discussions with party leaders in different phases at the state headquarters.
Last time during his visit to Kalahandi, Shah reviewed various works done by the party workers. While he praised party workers for successes, he also showed displeasure over some neglected areas.