Non-resident Odias in Bengaluru stage demonstration against Naveen govt

Bengaluru: The voices of dissent have now crossed the State boundaries as even non-resident Odias in Bengaluru staged massive demonstration opposing Naveen Patnaik-led government alleging that it has failed to uphold the democratic system in Odisha.

Holding placards and banners, the non-resident Odias under the aegis of the Pravasi Odia Sangathan staged a protest near the Jagannath temple at Aaghara. They alleged that the government is trying to suppress the voice of the people.

"We have launched a ‘Save Democracy Abhiyan’ and the message should reach the Odisha government. We condemn and oppose the attack on different political leaders who raise voice against corruption," said Saroj Kumar Parida, a non-resident Odia.

Expressing similar views, Manas Mahakula, said, "As a vigilant citizen, we will not tolerate the Odisha government's attack on democracy."

"If fourth pillar of the democracy is attacked, democracy will not sustain," Amulya Charan Barala, another non-resident Odia said.

The members of the Pravasi Odia Sangathan also threatened to intensify agitation if the government does not change its policy and stops the attack on politicians.