Political scene to heat up in Odisha during PM Modi's visit

Bhubaneswar: The political activities in Odisha is expected to gain momentum in the month of December ahead of the 2019 elections as BJP, Congress and BJD have chalked out roadmap to impress voters.

While Prime Minister Narendra Modi is expected to blow the poll bugle during his visit to the State on December 24, BJD is planning to strengthen its party organisation at the grassroots by organising its foundation day on December 26.

On the other hand, Congress has decided to celebrate 'black day' on December 26 to highlight failures of the Odisha government in the State.

As per reports, PM Modi will dedicate a new campus of IIT Bhubaneswar and lay the foundation stone for IISER, Berhampur. Besides, he would also lay foundation stone and inaugurate other development projects.

After the poll debacle of BJP during the recent Assembly polls in three states, this is the first visit of PM Modi to Odisha.

He is also scheduled to address a gathering during the party’s ‘Jana Sambad Samabesh’ at the foothills of Barunei in Khurda. Meanwhile, Union Minister Dharmendra Pradhan and other BJP leaders today visited the spot and reviewed the preparations.

“During the PM’s visit, various issues will be discussed including why the percentage commission has become rampant at the block level in the State,” stated Pradhan.

On the other hand, the ruling-BJD will celebrate its foundation day at every panchayat and spread information about its achievements and programmes.

“Like the earlier polls, the result will be the same in ensuing polls as well. We have decided to organise the party’s foundation day celebrations in all district and block headquarters on December 26,” stated Prasanna Acharya, BJD vice president.

On December 26, Congress will highlight several issues including Odisha government’s decision to not include panchayat representatives in PEETHA programme and irregularities in ‘Ama Gaon Ama Bikash’ programme.

“Black flag will be hoisted at the panchayats and demonstration will be organised in front of panchayat samiti office. The panchayat representatives will also wear black badges,” stated Congress spokesperson Sudarsan Das.