Odishatv Bureau

Bhubaneswar: Union Minister Dharmendra Pradhan on Saturday hit out at Odisha Chief Minister and BJD president Naveen Patnaik stating that the CM is fighting an issue-less election as the BJD has no other agenda except citing Central-negligence.

Speaking to the media, Pradhan said, “Even after 19 years of rule, Naveen babu and the BJD have no other election issues except criticising PM Narendra Modi and alleging Central neglect. Naveen's speeches are so much about Narendra Modi that it seems Odisha is going to have Lok Sabha elections only and not Assembly polls. The CM is fighting an issue-less election,” said Pradhan.

Patnaik, who was campaigning in Kandhamal district today; while addressing a public rally, alleged central negligence and also accused that Central leaders have been neglecting Odisha.

Responding to such oft-repeated jibes of Patnaik, Dharmendra further said that people of Odisha are suffering due to lack of drinking water, quality education, and hospitals while corruption and unemployment have increased. “Violence against women is increasing right under the nose of CM Naveen. Why is the CM silent on all these issues?” the union minister questioned.

Pradhan further alleged that CM Naveen has handed over the State’s governance to mining mafia. “I hope people will trust BJP’s double engine for development and Naveen will fail in spreading hate against PM Modi,” he added.

Responding to Pradhan’s allegations, BJD spokesperson Sasmit Patra said, “Pradhan should be ashamed of himself as even after BJP’s five years of rule at the Centre, he couldn’t amass power to contest election.”

Pradhan’s allegation against the CM is showing his fear of elections, he added.

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