Naveen Patnaik Takes a Stand: BJP Accused of Politicizing Sensitive Issues in Odisha Assembly

Odisha Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik strongly criticized the BJP for politicizing sensitive crime and development issues that have a negative impact on the states image. During a debate on the Motion of Thanks on the Governors address in the assembly, Patnaik expressed his disapproval of the opposition partys actions.

In a significant development, Odisha Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik strongly condemned the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) for politicizing sensitive crime and development issues that adversely affect the state's and its people's reputation. Patnaik made these remarks during the Motion of Thanks debate on the Governor's address in the state Assembly, which is considered the final session of his fifth term as Chief Minister.

Patnaik Accuses BJP of Defaming Odisha for Political Gain

Expressing his concern, Patnaik stated that he had never witnessed such politicization of sensitive issues in his 24 years as a member of the House. He emphasized that the people of Odisha would not forgive those who defame their own state for narrow political interests. Patnaik specifically mentioned the opposition's attempts to halt the Shree Mandir and Lingaraj projects and block the state's development.

BJP Members Stage Walkout Over Temple Tradition Issue

Earlier, the Assembly proceedings were disrupted due to protests by BJP members regarding a deviation from tradition in the Shree Jagannath Temple in Puri. The BJP members, led by opposition chief whip Mohan Charan Majhi, walked out of the House while Patnaik was speaking, raising slogans of "Jai Jagannath" and "Jay Sriram." Subsequently, they proceeded to Raj Bhavan to submit a memorandum to the Governor, drawing attention to the alleged violation of tradition in the 12th-century shrine.

Patnaik Condemns Politicization of Nayagarh Rape Case

Patnaik also criticized the BJP for politicizing the rape and murder of a young girl in Nayagarh. A local court had recently convicted a juvenile to 20 years of rigorous imprisonment in the case, but BJP supporters alleged the involvement of certain BJD leaders. Patnaik expressed his disappointment that while the state was achieving significant milestones, the opposition was busy politicizing every crime and attempting to defame Odisha and its people.

Chief Minister Highlights Odisha's Achievements

Despite the challenges, Patnaik highlighted several achievements during his fifth term in office. He mentioned the NITI Aayog report indicating that over one crore people had been lifted out of poverty in Odisha. The Chief Minister also celebrated the BJD's victory in all 30 district zilla parishads in the recent panchayat elections, demonstrating the people's appreciation for the state's growth trajectory.

Odisha's Revenue Surplus, Manufacturing, and IT Success

Patnaik further emphasized Odisha's position as the number one revenue surplus state in the country. He highlighted the state's success in attracting the second highest manufacturing investment in India and the establishment of major multinational corporations in the IT sector. Additionally, he mentioned the significant increase in the area under irrigation.

Empowerment of Tribal People and Women

Regarding the empowerment of tribal people, Patnaik spoke about the state government's initiative to procure 100% minor forest produce and ensure minimum support prices through the LABHA scheme. He also mentioned the establishment of special development councils to preserve and promote tribal language, literature, folk art, and unique cultural aspects.

Patnaik reiterated his commitment to women's empowerment, announcing the disbursement of approximately Rs 15,000 crore to Mission Shakti groups with zero percent interest. He highlighted the record-high financial empowerment of women in Odisha, accompanied by a 20% reduction in crimes against women and a significant increase in conviction rates.

Odisha's Role in COVID-19 Pandemic and Healthcare

Patnaik acknowledged Odisha's significant contribution during the COVID-19 pandemic by supplying oxygen to 17 states, thereby saving countless lives. He also mentioned the successful hosting of the Hockey World Cup in Sundergarh for the first time. Furthermore, he highlighted the impact of the Biju Swasthya Kalyan Yojana, which provides health coverage to over one-and-a-half lakh patients monthly, with the state spending approximately Rs 250 crore every month.

In conclusion, Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik's address in the Odisha Assembly highlighted his strong stance against the politicization of sensitive issues by the opposition BJP. He emphasized the importance of working together for the betterment of the state and its people. Patnaik also showcased Odisha's remarkable achievements in various sectors, including poverty reduction, revenue surplus, manufacturing, IT, tribal empowerment, women's empowerment, and healthcare, demonstrating the state's progress under his leadership.