Early panchayat polls likely in Odisha! State BJP president asks party cadre to gear up

Panchayat elections in Odisha are likely to be held ahead of schedule, BJP State President Manmohan Samal said on Friday. 

Samal indicated that the elections may be conducted two to three months earlier than the stipulated time due to the upcoming census exercise.

Speaking on the matter, Samal said the possibility of early panchayat elections cannot be ruled out and urged BJP-supported sarpanches and panchayat samiti members to intensify their efforts. He directed them to complete all pending development works within the next six months.

Emphasising the party’s preparedness for the forthcoming elections, Samal said the BJP must aim to win at all levels, including blocks, panchayats, district councils and wards. He stressed the need to build strong leadership at every level.

The BJP State President also announced that an induction drive will be organised at the panchayat level in the coming days. Leaders and workers joining the BJP at the panchayat level will be formally inducted there, while those joining at the assembly or district level will be inducted at the respective levels. Those wishing to join at the state level will be inducted at the BJP state office. The merger drive will be held from the panchayat level up to Bhubaneswar.

Also Read: Panchayat elections in Odisha likely in Jan–Feb next year: State Election Commissioner

Stating that only six months remain for the panchayat elections, Samal called upon party workers to work day and night. He specifically instructed sarpanches and panchayat samiti members who have not completed their assigned works to ensure all such tasks are finished within the next six months.

"Sarpanches and panchayat samiti members must ensure that they complete their assigned tasks within the next six months. Elections (panchayat) dates will be announced after six months. Those who have not completed their tasks in the last four years must try to finish them in the next six months. We have to win in all the blocks, panchayats, district councils and wards in the coming election. BJP will create leadership at every level," said Odisha BJP President Manmohan Samal.