Naveen's Electioneering Rhymes Around Central Neglect; BJP Retorts

Bhubaneswar: Reiterating that Odisha has been neglected by the Centre, BJD president Naveen Patnaik addressing a poll rally in Kaptipada of Mayurbhanj district, once again said the Prime Minister and other Central leaders were conspicuously absent when multiple natural disasters struck Odisha but are visiting the State now daily to seek votes.

Targeting PM Modi, Naveen said, "Centre stopped scholarships for SC/ST students and has not done anything for the improvement of the rail network in Mayurbhanj. The PM and other Central leaders could not find time during natural disasters. They did not come during Titli, Hudhud, Phailin, flood and drought. Now they are flocking in large numbers during elections to seek votes and are shedding crocodile tears.

Naveen further mentioned that Odisha's share for Baripada Medical College and Hospital (MCH) was 80 per cent while Centre provided only 20 per cent.

However, BJP's Cuttack Lok Sabha candidate Prakash Mishra accused the BJD of misleading people of Odisha through an advertisement on Baripada MCH.

Addressing a presser, Mishra questioned, "Why did the advert hide half the letter that cited reasons behind Baripada MCH not getting MCI's approval. MCI is an autonomous body and Centre has no say in its functioning. BJP is committed towards the establishment of Baripada MCH."