Dubbing the Pari murder incident as a sensitive case, the Chief Minister said, “Opposition parties are only doing cheap politics over the incident. The accused was awarded a punishment yesterday. The opposition should not do politics over the development and crime.”
The Chief Minister also made his statements about the Srimandir Parikrama project, Lingaraj temple Parikrama project, and the BSKY scheme.
BJD leader Debi Prasad Mishra said that political statements should be confined to election issues. “Our priority is the development of the state. Sensitive issues should not be sensationalised. It will damage the reputation of the state. That should not be done. The Chief Minister has appealed to the opposition parties to carry forward the development works,” he added.
Earlier in the day, the proceedings of the Budget session of the Odisha Assembly witnessed pandemonium throughout the day with multiple disruptions.
The BJP members rushed to the well of the House and displayed posters demanding an answer from the Odisha government and CM Naveen Patnaik.
Later, the BJD members also staged a demonstration in front of the Gandhi statue by alleging that the BJP is politicising the sensitive Pari murder case, the verdict of which was pronounced on Tuesday.
Governor Kalraj Mishra administered the oath of office and secrecy to all three.
When Bhajan Lal greeted the Prime Minister after taking oath, Modi patted him on the back. At the same time, former Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot, Vasundhara Raje, and Union Minister Gajendra Singh Shekhawat were seen laughing and talking for a long time.
During the ceremony held at Albert Hall, three stages were prepared, on one stage the saints and sages from all over the country were seated, while on the other stage, all the political leaders were seated. The third stage was made for the oath, on which Prime Minister Modi, the Governor, and the three leaders, who took the oath, were seated.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi reached the stage where the saints and greeted them. Former Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot also attended the oath ceremony. He reached Albert Hall about half an hour before the swearing-in ceremony and sat with Vasundhara Raje and Union Minister Gajendra Singh Shekhawat.
Bhajan Lal Sharma took on the day of his birthday. His family also celebrated his birthday at the guest house of Chambal Power House, his temporary base.
First, he visited Govind Devji temple, after which he washed the feet of his parents and took their blessings.
Deputy CM Premchand Bairwa visited Moti Dungri Ganesh Temple before taking an oath, and Deputy CM Diya Kumari also visited Govind Devji Temple.
Bhajan Lal is the first CM in the state who took oath on his birthday.
Those who attended the ceremony included Union Ministers Amit Shah, Nitin Gadkari, Smriti Irani, Piyush Goyal, Dharmendra Pradhan, Prahlad Joshi, Ashini Vaishnav, Gajendra Singh Shekhawat, Bhupendra Yadav, Hardeep Singh Puri, Anurag Thakur, Arjunram Meghwal among others.
As per reports, the government has decided to run Mo Buses from Bhubaneswar Airport to Puri and Cuttack and on Keonjhar-Berhampur routes.
In the letter, Debendra Sahoo, the general secretary of the All Odisha Bus Owners Association has urged the Chief Minister to consider the issue in the larger interest of the bus owners. “We would like to appraise your good self on the present issues on the operation of MO bus which are being faced by the private bus operators of Odisha,” the letter read.
He also pointed out that at a meeting chaired by the Commerce and Transport Minister on October 26, it was decided to maintain the status quo on the operation of Mo Bus and LAccMI buses for the time being while any plan of expansion of their services would be considered later by a committee of the Urban and Housing Development Department.
He also lamented that the planning to operate MO buses and LAccMI buses on various inter-city routes will make it difficult for private bus operators to survive.
Bhagat clinched a gold medal on Friday in the para-badminton men’s singles SL3 event in the ongoing Asian Para Games. Bhagat secured the gold after a hard-fought victory against his peer Nitesh Kumar.
The gold medal is an addition to the reigning Paralympic champion’s already impressive haul at the competition which contains two bronze medals in the men’s doubles SL3-SL4 and the mixed doubles SL3-SU5 events respectively.
Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik said, "Pramod is one the finest competitors and is an example of sheer determination, and I would like to extend my heartiest congratulations to him. I am certain he will continue to make us proud at the Paris 2024 Paralympics Games.”
The Chief Minister has assured all support for Pramod Bhagat ahead of the Paris 2024 Paralympic Games.
Following the victory, Bhagat expressed his gratitude for the support he had received on his journey and opined that the Asian Para Games would augur well in his preparation for Paris.
He said, "I would like to express deep gratitude for the overwhelming support I receive, notably from the Hon'ble CM of Odisha, Shri Naveen Patnaik. At the Asian Para Games, I proudly secured three medals in three events, including one gold and two bronze. This triumph serves as a source of inspiration and motivation for my journey towards the Paris Olympic Games in 2024."
Supporters of Siddaramaiah and D.K. Shivakumar have started claiming that their leader should be made the CM. Huge posters have come up in front of the residences of both the leaders.
The posters put up by the Congress workers claimed that their leaders are going to become the Chief Minister of the state. Sources explained that both Siddaramaiah and Shivakumar are intensely lobbying for the post and talking to MLAs to support them in the Legislature party meeting scheduled to be held on Sunday evening.
Amid all this, the supporters of Priyank Kharge, son of Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge, have also started a poster campaign demanding that he, a three-time MLA, should be made the CM.
"This is not only the dream of his father, it is the dream of all Kannadigas," reads a poster. A Twitter handle has also been created over the matter, said a source.
A group of women filed a complaint with the police in Vijayawada after a video of a dog tearing the chief minister's poster on a house wall went viral on social media.
Dasari Udayasree, said to be a worker of opposition Telugu Desam Party (TDP), sarcastically lodged the complaint with the police. She, along with some other women, demanded that action be taken against the dog and those behind it for insulting the chief minister.
She told local television channels that they have huge respect for Jagan Mohan Reddy whose party won 151 Assembly seats. She said a dog insulting such a leader has hurt six crore people of the state.
"We have requested the police to arrest the dog and those behind the dog who insulted our beloved chief minister," she said.
Earlier, the video of a dog tearing a sticker with Jagan Mohan Reddy's photo on it had gone viral. The sticker with slogan Jagananna Maa Bhavishyathu (Jagan anna our future) was pasted on a house as part of the ongoing state-wide survey by the ruling YSR Congress Party (YSRCP).
Several TDP supporters uploaded the video through their social accounts.
While addressing a gathering at the Law College as a guest, the scribe-cum-politician stated that law is equal for the Prime Minister and even a constable, but it is practically impossible to meet the Chief Ministers.
“When we were teaching rule of law, the law is equal from the Prime Minister and a constable. But these days, Prime Ministers are reluctant to answer and they are not ready to be accountable. These days, it is practically hard to meet or interact with the Chief Ministers,” said Patnaik.
According to Patnaik, the common people and voters are now in dilemma as they are unable to figure it out as to who is more powerful, the Ministers in the cabinet or the secretaries.
"Who will clear such confusion," he questioned. “It is now the responsibility of the lawyers to come forward. Today, Covid is almost over and the restrictions are gone, but nobody is speaking the truth. What fear is haunting the Law College alumini?” Patnaik questioned.
The BJD lawmaker further expressed his inability by stating, “We cannot say anything as we are working professionals and will get punished and suspended from the party. There might be some problems in our interest,” he added.
Though Soumya Ranjan Patnaik could not be contacted to seek more clarity under what circumstances he made such remarks during the event, it has now sparked a debate in the state with some speculating that the senior leader was taking a dig at the current state of political affairs in Odisha.
(Reported by Prabhat Bisoi)
Veteran leader and state Water Works Minister S. Duraimuguan was elected unopposed as the General Secretary of the party.
Former Union minister and MP T.R. Baalu, who is considered the face of the DMK in New Delhi, was also re-elected as the treasurer of the party without any opposition.
K.N. Nehru was elected as the Chief Secretary of the party.
Stalin appointed his younger sister Kanimozhi Karunanidhi to the post of Deputy General secretary of the party. The other deputy general secretaries are I. Periyasamy, A. Raaja, K. Ponmudi and Anthiyur Selvaraj.
The venue of the meeting was decorated with portraits of Dravidian ideologue, E.V. Ramsami Naikar or Periyar, C.N. Annadurai (DMK ideologue and former Chief Minister of Tamil Nadu and Kalaignar Karunanidhi, former Chief Minister of Tamil Nadu and father of Stalin and Kanimozi.
The agitators alleged that Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik has failed to provide security and safety to women of the State.
"The accused in the case should be arrested immediately and stringent action should be taken against him," said one of the agitators.
Yesterday, a woman allegedly committed suicide after an obscene video of her went viral. It is suspected that the youth was in a relationship with the woman and allegedly recorded the video and made it viral. When her family members came to know about the obscene video, she committed suicide by consuming poison.
"Last night we got a complaint from Madhupur village that a 19-year-old woman committed suicide by consuming poison after a youth from Talcher with whom she was in relationship made her obscene video viral," said Sabyasachi Rout, Inspector In-Charge (IIC) of Bantala PS.
As per the complaint, after coming to know about her viral video, the woman consumed poison out of public shame. She died while undergoing treatment at the Angul District Headquarters Hospital at 9 PM yesterday, stated Rout adding that the accused youth is yet to be traced.
In his letter, Patnaik requested the Centre to take an early decision regarding establishment of the HC benches in the western and southern Odisha to fulfill the aspiration of people of these regions.
“There is overwhelming public demand for establishment of permanent HC benches in both Western and Southern Odisha and the people of these areas are persistently agitating for the same. The agitations have affected the functioning of courts and other government offices in the regions," wrote Patnaik.
Assuring that the State government will provide all requisite resources for establishment of the HC benches, Patnaik said the Government of India has authority to decide about the creation of separate benches of the HC other than the principal seat.
"The State government is aware of various decisions of the Supreme Court as well as the recommendation of the Justice Jaswant Singh Commission for establishment of the HC bench away from its principal seat. All requisite resources for establishment of High Court benches in these regions will be provided by the State government," Patnaik added.
It is pertinent to mention here that several bar associations in western Odisha have been demanding establishment of the HC bench since long.
During a meeting with 15th Finance Commission Chairman NK Singh and members of the commission, the CM suggested the 1971 population should be used as devolution criteria.
Some other major suggestions he presented before the Commission include- extension of GST compensation for another 10 years, utilization of the Clean Energy Cess in coal mining areas.
The CM also requested to provide a package for disaster management of Rs 1,500 crore to build more cyclone shelters and improve the warning systems.
Patnaik further demanded special category status for Odisha while alleging the Centre of being negligent towards the State in various sectors. “Odisha faces natural calamities every alternate year. It is in this premise of historic Central neglect and frequent natural calamities that my government has been demanding Special category status for Odisha which will supplement our efforts in transforming the State,” he said.
He also alleged that the successive Central government, unfortunately, have ensured that the State remains at the bottom in tele-intensity, railway network, banking and highways.
Besides, the State has been neglected in establishment of industrial corridor, coal royalty and drinking water and irrigation and cutting off funds for scheduled areas and KBK, the CM stated.
“We have submitted a memorandum to the Commission and I am hopeful that the Commission will incorporate all our suggestions and aid in the rapid progress of Odisha,” Patnaik said.
CM Naveen suggests 15th #FinanceCommission on various aspects including demands of hike in clean energy cess and increase in tax devolution. #LISTEN to more on this #Odisha pic.twitter.com/nXGBxmy2wr
— OTV (@otvnews) January 9, 2019
The Finance Commission led by Chairman N.K. Singh is on a four-day visit to the state to hold detailed meetings with the state government.
President of the Mahila Congress, Sumitra Jena, said if the Chief Minister fails to take action against the minister they will gherao the Naveen Niwas on January 3.
“Congress activists will oppose Maharathy at different functions and public meetings. He has been a ‘goonda’ of the chief minister,” Jena alleged.
Neither Maharathy nor the BJD have responded to Pradesh Mahila Congress' ultimatum.
It is pertinent to mention that Congress women activists on Thursday staged demonstration before the Agriculture minister’s official residence and hurled eggs and tomatoes at his house.
Maharathy had courted a controversy by saying that that he welcomed the judgement and also said that the victim got justice.
On December 24, the court of additional district judge court in Bhubaneswar had acquitted the two accused arrested in the case.
Moreover, the district presidents of the party have been directed to encourage well wishers and supporters to donate funds to the party either through cheque or wire transfer at - http://www.bjdodisha.org.in/donation.
The party district presidents have been asked to review the donation process on a weekly basis.
The donated funds will be tax-free under Income Tax Act, 1961 section 80GGC and receipts will be given by party treasurer Subash Singh, the letter read. Patnaik has also set a target for party activists to add at least 200 new members from their respective panchayats in rural areas and wards in urban areas.
Responding to such a move, Odisha Congress chief Niranjan Patnaik stated that seeking funds from MLAs and MPs is a ploy of the BJD to hoodwink people as the party and its chief have enough money.
On the Other hand, BJD spokesperson, Pratap Deb said that on the occasion of the foundation day the decision was taken to strengthen party's organisation. “Seems like the Odisha Congress chief has enough money; let him donate some of it to us,” Deb added.
#BJDFundCollection: While #Odisha PCC chief Niranjan Patnaik says it's just a show-off & BJD has sufficient funds for the upcoming elections, BJD spokesperson Pratap Deb, takes a dig at PCC chief & says he should also contribute some from his mines' funds, if he has. pic.twitter.com/Pgg96g7xYR
— OTV (@otvnews) December 24, 2018
Besides, the State government is trying to help Odia students to appear for Matric exams in Surat. Patnaik stated that Odia text books will be provided to the children residing in the city.
Stating that he has written to the Gujarat CM requesting the latter to provide land for setting an Odia cultural centre in Surat, Patnaik announced Rs 10 crore for the project. Moreover, he assured the prabashi Odias that he has already requested the Centre to run Berhampur-Surat train and direct flight between Bhubaneswar and Surat.
The CM also clarified that Odias residing in Surat can get benefits of the Biju Swasthya Kalyan Yojana as the Odisha government has taken steps to provide the benefits to Odia people across the country.
“There is no need for Odias to fulfil APL/BPL criteria to avail the benefits. Under the yojana, medical coverage worth Rs 5 lakh will be provided to each family whereas Rs 7 lakh coverage will be given to women members of the family,” the CM added.
At a presser, Pradesh Congress Committee (PCC) Media Cell chief Satya Nayak today alleged that Mohapatra violated service conduct rules by directing the Kendrapara Collector and SP to invite all BJD MLAs and party functionaries to a function in Mahakalapada which was attended by Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik on December 8.
“The main job of bureaucrats of the State especially OAS and IAS officers at the Chief Minister’s Office (CMO) is now limited to hold meetings of the BJD at the expense of the state exchequer. The BJD menare being invited to the government functions as baratis,” said Nayak while questioning the political neutrality of bureaucrats.
“The Congress wants to know from where the bureaucrat (Mohapatra) is drawing the salary for which he is acting as a BJD agent,” questioned Nayak.
As per the All India Services (Conduct) Rules, every member of the service should maintain high ethical standards, integrity and honesty as well as political neutrality.
Meanwhile, comments from the CMO or Pradipta Mohapatra could not be obtained on the Congress’ allegations.
Both Congress and BJP cornered the ruling party over the issue. Though earlier the Opposition had moved an adjournment motion, it could not be discussed in the House. Following this, the Opposition leader and a team of BJP had undertaken a spot visit to assess the situation.
Today, the Leader of Opposition participated in the discussion and asked how the government gave permission to cut trees as the Supreme Court has clearly stated that trees cannot be felled on forest land without the Centre's permission.
Besides, Mishra asked why re-plantation of trees was not done and compensation was not paid to locals. "How come the pollution control board gave the permission?" Mishra asked. He also alleged unholy nexus between the beer factory, minister and bureaucrats.
Opposition chief whip, Tara Prasad Bahinipati alleged involvement of an IAS officer's relative in the matter.
BJP legislature party leader, KV Singh Deo also took part in the discussion and said if the 'third floor' has not directed the district administration, then who has given permission for tree cutting.
Replying to the motion, Forest and Environment Minister, Bijayshree Routray, said the industrial estate was set up on the land allotted by IDCO and permission was given to set up the brewery plant in 12.05 acre. "The patch of land was not 'forest land' and the DFO had given permission to cut the trees on August 24," the minister added.
The Political Stock Exchange survey conducted on September shows that Patnaik was the first choice of 59% people of the State. However, by November this figure has come down to 54%.
Talks are doing rounds that the BJD is worried over the 5% decline in popularity in last two months.
The figures were prepared on basis of feedback from 8,365 samples collected through a telephone survey across 21 parliamentary constituencies.
The India Today survey meanwhile has pointed out the rise in the popularity of Union Minister Dharmendra Pradhan. During the September survey the Union Minister’s support base was 21% whereas it has now increased to 24%.
Similarly, the India TV-CNX survey also does not indicate good results for the ruling party. In 2014, the BJD had got 44.77% votes. But if the election is held now the party will get 44% vote, the survey stated.
On the other hand, BJP’s vote share which was 21.88% during 2014 polls has now increased to 28.53% as per the latest survey. Congress could get 21.67% vote share if polls are held now, it said.
While the Congress has stated that the popularity of both Naveen and Modi has declined, the BJP said it is only Naveen who will suffer setback if polls are held now.
“Popularity of Naveen Patnaik-led government is declining quickly. The BJD government lost its image and the public displease is evident. Besides, popularity of the Central government has also declined drastically,” Leader of Opposition Narasingha Mishra said.
Commenting on the survey report, BJP MLA Pradip Purohit said, “In four and half years, the popularity of the chief minister has diminished and people of the State have got to know the real image of Naveen Patnaik. The public opinion is against the Naveen Patnaik government whereas popularity of BJP is growing.”
However, the BJD has refused to accept the survey reports. Party spokesperson Pratap Deb said “People of the state will not accept the fluctuations in the survey. Asking only a small group of people does not reflect the actual opinion of people of the State.”
Also Read: Op-Ed: Naveen govt can ignore anti-liquor movement at its own peril
On the other hand, political analysts have said the anti-BJD sentiment is growing in the State after a long period of staying in power.
Senior journalist K. Ravi said, “Be it anti-incumbency or unpopularity of local leaders, undoubtedly, the support base of the ruling party has declined.”
Sources said if the survey reports are to be believed, condition of BJD will be grim in coming days.
Sources said Congress legislature party meeting decided to raise issues of farmers in the Assembly as the government prevented farmers to hold a convention in Bhubaneswar recently.
Besides, Congress will raise unemployment, teachers' agitation and irregularities in ration card distribution in the House to put the BJD on the back foot.
"A range of issues including mismanagement of the situation after Titli to corruption in ration card allotment will be the main agenda. Biju Yuva Vahini's hooliganism will also be raked up in the House," said Anshuman Mohanty, Congress MLA.
Meanwhile, legislature party of the ruling-BJD has decided to raise the central negligence to the State and fuel price hike.
"The Centre's rejection of the Special Category State status demand of Odisha and petrol price hike issue will be brought for discussion. Apart from this, the ruling party is ready to discuss any issue raised by the Opposition," said Chief Minister and BJD supremo Naveen Patnaik.
The winter session will have 23 working days and conclude on December 15.
Meanwhile, DGP RP Sharma reviewed security arrangements yesterday at the State Assembly ahead of the winter session.
A total of 30 platoons of police force and 100 officers have been deployed for security at the Odisha Assembly. Apart from this, quick action team and anti terrorist squad will be stationed during the session, Sharma added.
Terming Odisha government’s BSKY as a ‘historic step,’ Patnaik stated BPL and above poverty line (APL) people will be benefitted by the State’s health coverage scheme.
“The BSKY is better in comparison to the Ayushman Bharat which covers BPL category families only,” said the chief minister at his party's ‘Jan Sampark Padyatra’ rally in Bhubaneswar.
“The state government has launched its healthcare coverage scheme for those who do not have a BPL card and will stand beside all sections of the society. Our scheme will benefit all,” the CM further said.
In response, BJP said when Union Health minister JP Nadda has stated several times that Centre’s scheme will cover all as per the socio-economic caste census (SECC) data which almost covers both the BPL and APL categories, there is no point why the Chief Minister of the State is making such statements.
Besides, in urban areas, everyone apart from the government employees are covered under the Ayushman Bharat, said BJP spokesperson Golak Mohapatra.
“If the CM had any reservations, he should have presented them during meetings with the Union Health Minister,” Mohapatra added.
Meanwhile, Pradhan said the Odisha CM is trying to mislead people in broad daylight as the guidelines of BSKY has not been finalised yet.
#BijucareVsModicare: Union Minister Dharmendra Pradhan responds to Naveen Patnaik, says the #Odisha CM is trying to mislead people in broad daylight; the guidelines of Biju Swasthya Kalyan Yojana are not finalised yet; 4,036 health packages are only on pen & paper pic.twitter.com/xMGZ08G0uH
— OTV (@otvnews) October 31, 2018
Yesterday, Pradhan had challenged Odisha government’s claim of providing coverage in over one crore cases under BSKY in just 60 days of implementation the scheme.
In a Facebook video, the Union Minister said that Odisha Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik feels insecure about Modi’s increasing popularity which is the main reason for not implementing the Ayushman Bharat scheme in the State.
Presenting a few others facts on the healthcare situation in Odisha, Pradhan said that the average number of doctors for every 1 lakh people in the State has reduced to nine from 11. The infant mortality rate is highest in Odisha in comparison to other States, he added.
As per reports, the team led by a DSP visited the office of the Divisional Forest Officer (DFO) and Superintending Engineer of Electricity department and enquired about the matter.
Yesterday Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik ordered a Crime Branch probe into the death of seven elephants due to electrocution near Kamalanga village under Sadar range in Dhenkanal district late on Friday night.
Expressing deep concern over the incident, the CM further ordered the concerned authorities to take appropriate action against the officials responsible for any negligence.
Three officials of the Forest & Environment Department including Dhenkanal Range officer Prasanna Kumar Biswal, Forester of Meramundali section Prabhakar Rana and forest guard of Meramundali section Girish Chandra Dehury have been suspended.
Similarly, the electricity department sacked one officer and suspended three others in connection with the incident.
Sanjay Kumar Mohanty, DEE (Contract)/JM (Ele), Electrical Section, Meramundali has been terminated from his post and replaced by Pradeep Kumar Pradhan, JM (Ele), Electrical section, Talcher.
Besides, Naresh Chandra Pattnaik, GM/(Ele)/Circle Manager, EC, Dhenkanal, Artatrana Nayak, SDO of Chainpal and Phiroj Panda, Lineman-B of Electrical Section, Meramundali have been suspended by the electricity department.
On the other hand, members of the Dhenkanal Milita Bazaar Committee today gheraoed the DFO office demanding action against those responsible for the elephant deaths.
As per the charges levelled by Swain, some miscreants created ruckus when he spoke against the CM during a speech this afternoon.
He was allegedly manhandled and threatened as well. Later, Swain left the meeting midway.
Swain has also alleged that supporters of BJD leader, Pratap Deb perpetrated the incident.
“Nirad Senapati, a supporter of Deb, along with some other persons manhandled me and my supporters. I can easily recognise the accused. I have come to the Kendrapara SP office to lodge a complaint,” he added.
On the other hand, Deb refuted the charges.
Besides, the Chief Minister's Office has issued a directive asking ministers, MLAs and bureaucrats not to throng Naveen Niwas to celebrate his birthday. Usually well-wishers visit Naveen Niwas every year to greet the CM on his birthday.
It is pertinent to mention that Ganjam, Gajapati, and Rayagada districts were badly affected due to Cyclone Titli, heavy rains, and the subsequent floods.
Earlier when Hudhud and Phailin had struck the State in 2014 and 2013 respectively, the CM had stayed away from celebrating his birthday.
Meanwhile, Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Union Minister Dharmendra Pradhan have greeted the CM on his birthday.
Best wishes to Odisha CM Shri Naveen Patnaik Ji on his birthday. Naveen Ji is one of India’s senior-most leaders who has been serving the people of Odisha for many years. May he lead a long and healthy life. @Naveen_Odisha
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) October 16, 2018
ଓଡିଶାର ମୁଖ୍ୟମନ୍ତ୍ରୀ ଶ୍ରୀଯୁକ୍ତ ନବୀନ ପଟ୍ଟନାୟକଙ୍କୁ @Naveen_Odisha ଜନ୍ମ ଦିନର ହାର୍ଦ୍ଦିକ ଶୁଭକାମନା ସହ ଦୀର୍ଘ ଓ ନିରାମୟ ଜୀବନ କାମନା କରୁଛି।
— Dharmendra Pradhan (@dpradhanbjp) October 16, 2018
Senior leader and former MP Baijayant Panda also took to Twitter and conveyed warm wishes to the CM.
I wish @Naveen_Odisha a v.happy birthday
I deeply appreciate post cyclone work of Indian forces/ODRAF
& AGAIN offer helicopters at no cost to augment that, as in earlier years.
45 reported dead. Families of the missing wd surely want any additional search/rescue/relief efforts?? https://t.co/tli9Qinkby— Baijayant Jay Panda (@PandaJay) October 16, 2018
Sand animator Sudarsan Pattnaik also wished the CM through a sand art at Puri sea beach.
Sand animator @sudarsansand wishes CM Naveen Patnaik on his 73rd birthday through sand art at Puri beach #Odisha pic.twitter.com/QS4aDjy5Sy
— OTV (@otvnews) October 16, 2018
After launching the programme Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik said the children of construction workers would get financial assistance for their education in Industrial Training Institutes (ITIs) and polytechnics.
Patnaik added the government has already deposited Rs 1.09 crore in the bank accounts of beneficiaries of the programme.
Besides, the government has decided to increase the financial assistance by 20 per cent for girl students. Female students from standard sixth to post graduation level are being provided financial assistance, the CM informed.
While an ITI student will receive a financial assistance of Rs 23,600, a diploma student will get Rs 26,300 per annum. A total of 1,878 students will be benefitted under the programme, said sources.
Meanwhile, death benefits for construction workers have been doubled by the State government. Kin of construction workers, who were getting Rs 1 lakh as compensation, will now get Rs 2 lakh. Similarly, the accidental benefit has been doubled from Rs 2 lakh to Rs 4 lakh.
Coming down heavily on the State government while addressing public gatherings at Talcher and Jharsuguda yesterday, PM Narendra Modi said the corruption has become an identity for BJD government. The PM targeted the Naveen Patnaik-led government over various issues like Percentage Commission (PC) activities, cooperative bank loan scam and sapling scams.
The attacking gesture of the PM meanwhile has enthused the BJP activists in the State with talks doing rounds that the new development has somewhat ended the possibility of any equation of alliance between the saffron party and the BJD ahead of the 2019 general polls.
"We have been talking about a corrupt and incapable State govt and now the PM has echoed similar views. Definitely, this will affect the views of the people of the State. Activists of BJP are quite jubilant by the remarks of the PM," said Golak Mohapatra, BJP spokesperson.
BJD spokesperson, Pratap Deb, however, said, "BJP might be happy with the remarks of Modiji but they should understand that the PM has stooped to the level of the State politics."
Political analysts are of the opinion that after the TDP, PDP and Shiv Sena severed ties with the BJP, the saffron party is in a lookout for a new partner.
OPCC chief Niranjan Patnaik said BJD and BJP are hands-in-glove and are having some understandings despite the public spar.
"In north India BJP is losing ground and they are trying to strengthen party base in Odisha and West Bengal by any means including use of money. Otherwise, they will lose identity in the forthcoming election," stated Patnaik.
Political analyst Prasanna Mohanty said, "Modi has attacked on the weakness of CM Naveen. At least till 2019, any understanding between BJD and BJP is not going to happen and the saffron party will be in an attacking mode. However, there might be some change in the scenario after election."
The complainant alleged that CM and others also violated norms by flying over the brackish water lake several times in the past, but no action was taken against them.
When action was initiated against former Kendrapara MP Baijayant Panda, why similar action was not taken against CM Naveen Patnaik, Puri MP Pinaki Misra, Ministers Maheswar Mohanty and Pradeep Maharathy and Brahmagiri legislatorSanjay Das Burma for flying over Chilika, questioned Patnaik while talking to reporters.
In his complaint, Patnaik also cited the dates and timings when the leaders flew over the lake.
Two days back the Sachetana Nagarika Manch convener had also lodged similar grievance before Puri SP Sarthak Sarangi about the alleged flying of the CM over Chilika lake.
On September 17, police seized the helicopter of former MP Baijayant Panda after FIR was filed by State government officials in connection with a helicopter flying over the ‘No Flying Eco Sensitive Zone’ of Chilika Lake.
However, Panda had termed the action a vindictive attempt by the ‘third floor’ of the State Secretariat to curtail his movement across the State.
“While former Chief Minister Biju Babu used to ask people of the State to thrash corrupt officials, his son Naveen has made corruption a policy statement,” stated Rout speaking to mediapersons.
Besides, Rout said the Chief Minister knowingly allocated him the Excise department so that he will be asked to quit the post in case any death happens due to liquor consumption.
"But no one was killed due to liquor consumption during my tenure as Excise Minister. Rather, revenue of the Excise department increased to Rs 2,800 Cr during my tenure from Rs 1400 Cr earlier. If there are any irregularities in liquor shop license allocation as alleged by Sameer Das, he can disclose those," stated the senior legislator.
The senior politician also came down heavily on Cooperation Minister Surya Narayan Patro who had raised fingers at him alleging the senior leader’s link with gangster Tito. "SN Patro does not have moral standing to level charges against me. The government can handover the case to the Interpol instead of SIT to find out anything about me," said Rout.
As per the allegations, corruption is rampant in the departments where the Chief Minister is the chairman of statutory committees.
Data presented by Planning and Coordination Minister, Usha Devi in the Assembly revealed that Odisha Skill Development Mission, State Science and Technology Council, high-level clearance authority of Tourism department, State Wildlife Board and Sagarmala Committee have not sat for a meeting for long time. Besides, the last meeting of the general council of the Odia Bhasa Pratisthan was held in 2007. Curiously, the CM chairs these committees.
BJP alleged that as the meetings have not been held for a long period, maximum number of corruption cases are reported in those concerned departments.
“Though he (Naveen) is aware of all the matters, he is not calling for statutory meetings. Same can be observed with statutory committees of OPEPA and tribal council. The maximum corruption is in those departments where the CM is the committee chairman,” stated Golak Mohapatra, BJP spokesperson.
PCC vice president Arya Gyanendra said, “It is an autocratic government in the State. As the ruling party has 117 MLAs, they believe no one can question them.”
Refuting the charges, BJD said the allegations are baseless.
“If the CM could not attend the statutory committee meetings due to his busy schedule, other officers usually attend the meetings and minutes are sent to him. If anybody makes this thing an issue, it is not appropriate,” said Pratap Deb, BJD spokesperson.
A few days back, senior legislator Damodar Rout had alleged “When OPEPA accounts officer is involved in Rs 6-crore scam, how come he (Chief Minister) does not know despite being the chairman of the committee. Besides, he is chairman of other committees including the one on Ratna Bhandar where corruption is rampant.”
Rout, who was instrumental in foiling a coup against Patnaik on May 29, 2012, stated that when the ruler becomes drab and unconcerned, sycophants rule the roost and the same situation is prevailing in the State.
Making a direct attack on Patnaik, Rout said the BJD president, in order to safeguard his political interests, keeps changing his ideology, which is contrary to the ideals of his father and former chief minister Biju Patnaik.
"A section of BJD leaders are now looting Odisha in the name of Biju Patnaik. This must be hurting the soul of the legendary leader. It will be good for the people of Odisha if the chief minister is unseated at the earliest," Rout said.
Dama further stated that he did not join the BJD, but Naveen accompanied by Rama Krushna Patnaik and AU Singh Deo had visited his residence and invited him to join the party.
“After the formation of the party, there was a coup within three months. I helped him (Naveen) when the dissenters said without their help he cannot win election in coastal Odisha,” said Rout.
He alleged that a conspiracy is being hatched to loot another 20 mines in the State. Besides, he lambasted Chief Minister's Private Secretary, VK Pandian and former Mayurbhanj Collector Rajesh Prabhakar Patil for the sapling scam.
Earlier today, upon his return from the national capital, Patnaik told reporters, "Dama babu has always been making irresponsible statements. His allegations are ridiculous."
Meanwhile, BJD Rajya Sabha MP, Soumya Ranjan Patnaik said, “There was no way other than expelling him because of his actions in the past few days.”
During the roadshow, the Chief Minister will hold discussions with investors and highlight the State government's policy for setting up of industries, said sources. Currently Patnaik is on a three-day visit to Delhi.
Earlier, in August, the Chief Minister had met industry bigwigs in Mumbai at a roadshow organised by the Odisha government in association with its industry partner Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FICCI).
The State government has targetted that by 2025, Odisha will attract Rs 2.5 lakh crore investments and create 30 lakh job opportunities in five sectors.
As per reports, similar roadshows will be held in Kolkata, Bengaluru and Hyderabad as well.
Besides, the government aims to become the third best startup hub in the country as already more than 250 startups have registered themselves in the State.
Also Read: Pradhan writes to Naveen for ‘speedy approval’ of NTPC project
It is pertinent to mention here that similar roadshows were also organized by Odisha during the first edition of Make in Odisha Conclave. Though Odisha had received 84 proposals with an investment pledged to the tune of Rs 2.03 lakh crore, projects worth Rs 79,369 crore have advanced so far as per the data presented by the State government in Assembly.
For schools in other areas, it is up to the Collectors to take a decision after assessing the rain situation, a statement issued by the Chief Minister’s Office (CMO) stated.
The decision to close Anganwadi centres is taken to ensure safety of kids, the statement mentioned.
Meanwhile, incessant rains crippled life in several parts of Odisha on Thursday as the depression over the Bay of Bengal intensified into a deep depression, raising the likelihood of more downpour till Friday, officials said.
Low-lying areas in several districts, including Jagatsinghpur, Puri, Cuttack, Kendrapara, Jajpur, Bhadrak and Khordha have been inundated with heavy rain pounding many parts of the state since Tuesday.
Vehicular movement was disrupted at many places with roads getting submerged in rain water. Life was affected in the twin-cities of Cuttack and Bhubaneswar.
Also Read: Weather Forecast: Thunderstorm, Lightning & Intense Rainfall Alert For 25 Districts
The depression, which concentrated into a deep depression, moved westwards before crossing the West Bengal coast close to Digha. It is likely to weaken gradually during the next 24 hours, said Director of Bhubaneswar Regional Meteorological Centre, H R Biswas.
Under its impact, rain and thundershower is likely to occur in most places in Odisha, while heavy to very heavy rainfall and extremely heavy rainfall may lash northern, southern and interior regions, said a MeT bulletin.
Sources said as many as eight proposals are likely to be discussed at the meeting scheduled to be held this evening.
Besides different welfare schemes, discussions on extension of tenure of 66 civic bodies ending on September 30 is likely to be discussed during the meeting.
As the State government has moved the Supreme Court challenging the Orissa High Court verdict on seat reservation, it has not been able to provide information on ward delimitation and seat reservation to the State Election Commission, informed sources.
The civic body election is not likely to be held until the SC verdict is out. This may delay the civic body polls, sources added.
"Amar Patnaik has a very rich experience of working in many states and his joining will definitely strengthen the party. He will head the IT wing of BJD,” said the Chief Minister while welcoming him to the party.
The chief minister's leadership qualities inspired him to join the party, said Amar.
“I believe in Naveen Patnaik's strong leadership. I was also inspired by my association with late Biju Patnaik. These factors propelled me to leave the service and join the party. It was a leap of faith and conviction in the leadership of our chief minister and commitment to cause of the State,” said the former Principal Accountant General.
Minister and senior BJD leader SN Patro, present at the joining ceremony, said Amar Patnaik will be an asset to the party.
In a twitter message, Singh Deo said keeping in view the contribution of Vajpayee towards Odisha; he is requesting the CM to move a resolution in the House as a tribute on behalf of the people of the State.
“In a tweet message, I have requested the CM to bring a resolution following a consensus in the House. Starting from providing assistance during super cyclone to setting up Paradip refinery and establishment of AIIMS, he has lent a helping hand to the State,” Singh Deo said.
Commenting on the matter, Congress MLA, Prafulla Majhi, said “Definitely this practice has not happened earlier as per my knowledge. It’s up to the CM to take a decision.”
“Everyone will accept Vajpayeeji’s contribution towards Odisha. But to bring a resolution in Assembly, there is a procedure for that. If the House decides to bring such a resolution, it can be moved,” said Amar Prasad Satpathy, the ruling party chief whip.
Yesterday, at the all-party & public memorial service of Vajpayee in Bhubaneswar, CM Naveen Patnaik, PCC chief Niranjan Patnaik and other leaders had paid tributes to the departed soul.
Highlighting the achievements of his government, Patnaik stated that the state government is carrying out infrastructure development and ensuring empowerment of women. "Odisha has moved ahead and will continue to do so in coming days. In democracy, welfare of masses is important and I am happy to have kept my promises,” the CM stated.
Patnaik, during his speech said that the State government has always prioritised youth, women and farmers as he recalled the freedom fighters and other great sons of the soil.
"We are providing loans at an interest rate of one percent. After the Asian Athletics meet, Odisha is all set to host the Men’s World Cup hockey," Patnaik pointed out. He also took salute at a spectacular parade that followed the address.
As per reports, Patnaik will hold one-to-one meeting with investors and request them to invest in Odisha in different sectors. During the event, the chief minister will inform the gathering about sops being offered to investors, said sources.
Information pertaining to the 1.25 lakh land bank in the State will also be highlighted to the prospective and existing investors at Mumbai.
“The CM will meet the investors and apprise them about the conducive environment for business available in the State,” said a senior official.
As many as 72 companies were given single window clearance by the State government last year. A total of 124 companies had envisaged interest to invest in the State during the conclave last year.
The CAC will urge the CM to approach the Centre for the just demands of the Western Odisha people, said Ashok Das, convener of the CAC.
Last month, lawyers in Sambalpur had launched an agitation protesting State and Central governments' indifference towards their long-standing demand of a permanent High Court bench in Western Odisha.
Nearly 150 lawyers were taken into preventive custody following a scuffle with police officials during the protests.
The response of the Union Minister came a week after Odisha Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik, through a letter, urged him to expedite the formal process for setting up the HC benches.
Prasad’s letter further stated that the state government should work out the details including provision of land, building for High Court and residential accommodation for Judges and staff of the proposed Bench in consultation with the Chief Justice.
"Once the state government conveys the proposal with due preparation along with the consent of the high court, which would, obviously include the location and jurisdiction of the proposed benches, the Union Government would take further necessary action,” mentioned Ravi Shankar Prasad in the letter.
Meanwhile, senior BJD leader Prasanna Acharya termed the letter of the Union Minister as another farcical act of the Centre to pass on the responsibility back to Odisha government.
Earlier in the day, the High Court Bar Association decided to continue the ongoing cease-work stir till Monday in connection with non-fulfillment of their previous demands and alleged thrashing of a lawyer by a police officer.
"A representative group of the association met Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik and Odisha Governor Ganeshi Lal demanding fulfillment of various demands; the next course of action of the association will be chalked out on Monday," said Association president Srikanta Kumar Nayak.
"While the monthly salary of Anganwadi workers has been increased to Rs 7500 from Rs 6000, Mini Anganwadi workers will get a salary of Rs 5375 instead of Rs 4125," CM Naveen informed.
Similarly, for Anganwadi helpers, monthly salary has been increased to Rs 3,750 from Rs 3,000.
Moreover, the age for disengagement has been increased from 60 years to 62 years subject to certain conditions to be prescribed by the Government. At the time of disengagement at 62 years, an amount of Rs 20,000 to Anganwadi workers, Rs 15,000 to mini Anganwadi workers and Rs 10,000 to Anganwadi helpers will be given as a measure of social security.
Apart from that, a vacation of 15 days will be allowed annually to Anganwadi workers and Anganwadi helpers during peak summer period.
The new increment in salaries will come into effect retrospectively from October 1, 2018, informed sources.
Criticising the State government’s move, BJP spokesperson Golak Mahapatra said, "Announcement of salary increment for Anganwadi workers is just like handing over lollipops to children."
"We were studying at our home in the evening when we heard the screams. We immediately stepped out and jumped into the water. Since both of us know swimming, we managed to save some villagers," said Babita.
A mechanised boat ferrying passengers capsized in the Mahanadi river on Wednesday, apparently after losing balance. At least 10 people, including seven children, were killed in the incident.
State Women and Child Development Minister Prafulla Samal had also rewarded the six residents of Nipania village including the Giri sisters at Mahakalpada block of the district with a cheque of Rs 10,000 for their noble and timely action.
Collector Dasarathy Satpathy, who was present at the programme, said, "They wasted no time and dived into the rivulet and dragged ten persons out, mostly women and children. If not for their valour, the toll would have been higher." He added that the administration will recommended their names for "Jeevan Raksha Padak", a civilian lifesaving award instituted by the Union government.
In a letter to PM Modi, CM Naveen had mentioned that an additional irrigation potential of 7.8 lakh hectares has been created and Rs 26,889 crore spent since 2014 with a contribution of Rs 1,211 crores or 4.5% from Centre through PMKGY (AIBP). "Odisha has invested record Rs 10,196 crore this year itself in irrigation," the letter mentioned.
CM Naveen added that Odisha has already completed 46 mega lift irrigation projects, 53,576 deep bore wells, 5,837 community lift points, 8,335 check dams for the welfare of farmers.
Responding to Patnaik's letter, Union Minister Dharmendra Pradhan said "Odisha CM should clarify what happened to the mega Gangadhar Meher Lift Canal System announced just ahead of the Bijepur Bypoll. Moreover, he should provide details about drinking water, employment generation, housing & Soubhagya schemes."
BJD spokesperson Sameer Das said "Their (BJP) lies have already been exposed. If they are alleging something they should specifically mention about it with proper facts."
Meanwhile, the Congress lashed out at both BJP and BJD over the issue.
Moreover, the Chief Minister inaugurated 3 buildings of Berhampur University and multiple projects in Gopalpur constituency including a railway over bridge at Gopalpur junction.
Later, the CM addressed a public event at Khalikote College stadium where he inaugurated a traffic light system, multi-purpose community centre and 3 water tanks worth Rs 114 crore.
Earlier yesterday, the district BJP members staged a demonstration waving black flags in front of MKCG Medical College and Hospital protesting CM's visit. Following the protest, police had detained 10 persons.
“The recent electrocution of seven tuskers in Dhenkanal, which is the highest such death toll in a single incident, has caused furore throughout the nation about the reprehensible state of elephant protection in Odisha,” Maneka wrote.
“It comes at the back of dismal statistics wherein 124 or a whopping 28 per cent casualties have taken place due to accidents and electrocution. It is tragic to note that a dozen magnificent pachyderms are dying every year due to mismanagement and incoordination between government agencies,” Maneka added.
Citing reports, she alleged that distribution companies are being given a free hand in elephant corridors without necessary oversight.
In the letter, the Union Minister also mentioned that the National Green Tribunal has imposed a fine Rs 1 crore on CESU while a probe has been launched into the Dhenkanal incident.
Expressing her disappointment on the elephants' death, the Union Minister said that even after laying guidelines under the Shri A K Biswal committee by the Ministry of Environment and Forests, the alarming trend of elephant deaths has continued unabated.
“I also urge you to take necessary action against the officials who failed to put the A K Biswal Committee recommendations into practice in the State,” Gandhi wrote.
Terming the elephants of Odisha as 'the pride of India', she wrote, “We owe a debt to our future generations for their welfare and safety.”
On October 22, seven elephants had died due to electrocution under Dhenkanal Sadar forest range. Similarly, on September 5, two elephants had died after being electrocuted in Jajpur district.
The event which will continue till November 15 aims at bringing more investments to the State.
On the first day of the 5-day conclave, CM Naveen asked industry captains to explore the immense opportunities that the state has to offer as it takes rapid strides to emerge as the manufacturing hub of the east.
The conclave was inaugurated in the presence of a host of dignitaries including Japanese Ambassador to India, Kenji Hiramatsu and consul generals of several other countries, besides representatives from industry body FICCI.
"Odisha is emerging as a manufacturing hub of the east and we are incessantly working towards developing it as a global hub for industries in certain focus sectors," Patnaik said while urging the Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce & Industry (FICCI) to partner with the departments in successful implementation of the state's 'Vision 2025' for industrial development in six focus sectors.
The plennary session of the second edition of Make In Odisha Conclave, scheduled to be held from Monday, would be attended by a battery of top industrialists including Mukesh Ambani, N Chandrasekaran, Kumar Mangalam Birla along with 800 other industry leaders.
Apart from Reliance Industries, Aditya Birla Group and Tata Group, Vedanta Resources chief Anil Agarwal and industry delegation from at least six countries -- South Korea, Japan, Germany, France, Saudi Arabia and the UAE -- are expected to attend the state's mega business meet here.
Chairman of Mahindra Group Anand Mahindra, chairman of Jindal Steel and Power Ltd Naveen Jindal and Adani Group chief Goutam Adani are also expected to be part of the conclave which will conclude on November 15.
"Mukesh Ambani will be the star speaker at the Business Leadership Summit to be organised just after plenary session of the conclave. The summit will provide leadership perspective from industry captains to inspire next generation leaders," Odisha Industries Minister Ananta Das had said earlier.
In the run up to the mega event, Patnaik had met ambassadors of different countries in New Delhi.
While Japan is the partner country of the conclave this year, the expo will be showcasing manufacturing prowess of the state through use of modern technologies by the companies operating here.
Apart from seeking investment from the industries, the prime objective of the conclave is to showcase the potential of the state in different sectors, said industries secretary Sanjeev Chopra.
The first edition of the conclave was held in 2016 where the state had received investment proposals worth Rs 2 lakh crore, he claimed.
(With PTI inputs)
In pursuance to orders from party president Naveen Patnaik, Damodar Rout has been expelled from the BJD, informed party’s state secretary, Bijay Kumar Nayak through a press release.
"I am not aware, came to know from news reports; never considered I was in party since December last,” Rout said.
"Can Naveen Patnaik confidently claim that he is the president of BJD? Which follower of Biju Babu is with him? I will contest elections, don't need any party's ticket," Rout added.
Rout had recently created ripples in the political circle by alleging irregularities and scams in disbursal of Cooperative bank loans, Omfed, distribution of saplings & in the Health department.
On Monday, BJD’s Balikuda-Erasama MLA Prashant Kumar Muduli and party’s Jagatsinghpur district president Bishnu Charan Das had met CM Naveen and urged for disciplinary action & suspension of Rout.
"A wave of happiness has swept Jagatsinghpur following Dama Rout's dismissal; he should have been removed earlier," Das said Rout’s expulsion.
Meanwhile, Congress MLA, Debendra Sharma said, “ The 'godfather' Damodar Rout was referring to is CM's private secretary, VK Pandian, who is behind Rout's dismissal.”
Earlier today, Rout had praised Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik by calling him a good human being, a writer and an artist with a clean image and has greater exposure as compared to his counterparts in the country.
Former Kendrapara MP Baijayant Panda took to Twitter to respond to Rout's expulsion.
>In the party of which i was a proud member from inception for nearly two decades, until a few short years ago when it lost its way...
>Used to be that whistle blowers were lionised & the corrupt dismissed, dropped, expelled...
>What happened that the exact opposite now prevails?— Baijayant Jay Panda (@PandaJay) September 12, 2018
Offering his heartfelt condolences to the departed leader, Patnaik described Karunanidhi as the tallest leader of Tamil Nadu, who played a key role in social change and reforms in his state.
"In fact, he was much ahead of his times. As Chief Minister of Tamil Nadu for several times, he made significant contributions in the development of the state and played a crucial role in national politics as well," said the Chief Minister.
He also made immense contributions to Tamil literature and cinema. His demise marks the end of an era in Tamil Nadu and India lost one of its worthiest sons, said Patnaik.
The 94-year-old politician breathed his last at Chennai's Kauvery Hospital on Tuesday.
Patnaik prayed peace and tranquility for the departed soul and expressed sympathies to the family members.
Finance Minister Shasibhusan Behera and former Minister Devi Prasad Mishra will attend the funeral of late Karunanidhi, said a communique from Chief Minister's Office.
Former Kendrapara MP Baijayant Jay Panda took to Twitter to express his condolences.
https://twitter.com/mp_office/status/1026832105777422336
Similarly, Union Minister of Petroleum and Natural gas also expressed his condolence for the departed soul.
https://twitter.com/dpradhanbjp/status/1026828425032544256
(With IANS inputs)
In the letter, Patnaik mentioned that the Digha-Jaleswar Broad Gauge Rail Project (41 kms) was sanctioned by the Ministry of Railways during the year 2011-12. A length of seven kms of the project passes through West Bengal while 34 kms of length passes through Balasore district in Odisha.
Patniak stated that even after seven years of its sanctioning, the project has not yet taken off in terms of construction. It is learnt that the project has been kept on hold as land acquisition in West Bengal portion has not progressed, he added.
Earlier, the CM had proposed a change in the alignment of the aforesaid Broad Gauge Railway line through a letter addressed to the then Prime Minister, Manmohan Singh. Reportedly, the proposed realigned line will pass through the State of Odisha touching various pilgrim and tourist spots like Bhusandheswar, Chandaneswar and Talsari-Udayapur Beach.
Naveen further stated that such a change of alignment will not only help in development of tourism but will also aid in improving the socio - economic condition of the region.
Since such an important project in Odisha has been stalled for more than seven years, Patnaik urged the Union Minister to intervene and take an early decision to change the alignment so that the entire route may pass through Odisha.
The CM has also assured full co-operation for land acquisition and all other necessary support that would be needed by Railways from Odisha.
As per the complaint, the tickets which cost Rs 100 were sold at the rate of Rs 1000 and ticket priced at Rs 500 were sold at Rs 4000 in black market.
The complaint was filed by RTI activists & social workers demanding a detailed probe into the incident and legal action against the people involved.
“We have lodged an FIR against Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik and Sports department secretary Vishal Dev as no clarification has been given by the government over irregularities in Hockey World Cup ticket sale. We demand a detailed probe into the incident,” civil society member, Sanjukta Panigrahy said.
The activists further alleged that CM Naveen, Vishal Dev and other government officers are involved in giving out inflated contracts for Hockey World Cup games to the tune of crores of rupees arbitrarily, thereby misusing their official positions for private gain.
More than 200 artisans from 14 states across the country participated in the fair which aims at promoting traditional tribal art, culture and handicrafts in the country. The mela is scheduled to continue for seven days or till November 30.
Various traditional craft materials made up of bamboo, clothes and pottery are the centre of attraction apart from other traditional crafts exhibited in the fair.
“I am very happy to inaugurate the National tribal crafts exhibition 2018. 14 states of the country including Odisha are participating in the event. I expect a good footfall this year,” said Patnaik.
Director of SCSTRTI, Akhil Bihari Ota said,“21 bilingual tribal dictionaries were released by the Chief Minister; the Tribal research institute had been bestowed with the responsibility to script down the dictionaries.”
On the other hand, traders at the mela see it as a good employment opportunity.
"We were trained here for three months under the Odisha Tribal Empowerment and Livelihoods programme to make different items like idols, pen stands and flower base, helping us become self-dependent,” said a trader, Subhadra Naik.