As the second phase of polls in Odisha approaches, the BJP is intensifying its campaign efforts, leaving no stone unturned to criticize the BJD and CM Naveen Patnaik. Union Home Minister Amit Shah joined the fray, taking aim at the BJD supremo and CM Naveen Patnaik during a massive public gathering in Sorada, Ganjam district, on Wednesday.
PM Modi’s Contributions to Odisha’s Pride
Union Home Minister Amit Shah extols Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s efforts in restoring Odia pride. Highlights include showcasing the Konark Sun temple wheel at the G20 meeting and appointing Droupadi Murmu as President of India. PM Modi’s vision roadmap for the next 25 years is emphasized, promising transformative development for Odisha.
Obstruction of Ram Utsav by Naveen Patnaik
Shah accuses the Naveen Patnaik government of hindering citizens’ participation in Ram Utsav celebrations, a sacred event for millions. Highlights PM Modi’s instrumental role in expediting the Ram Mandir construction, contrasting it with the alleged obstruction by the Odisha government. Questions the commitment of the state government to religious harmony and cultural heritage.
Crackdown on Terrorism and Left-Wing Extremism
Shah lauds PM Modi’s resolute leadership in curbing terrorism and left-wing extremism over the past decade. Emphasizes surgical strikes and airstrikes as decisive actions against terrorist threats, ensuring national security. Contrasts the current era of relative peace with the period of frequent bomb blasts during Congress rule, underlining the efficacy of BJP’s security measures.
Critique of Rice Distribution: Empty Bags vs. Modi’s Rice
Amit Shah criticizes Naveen Patnaik’s distribution of rice in bags bearing his image, branding it as a misleading tactic. Advocates for adding 2.5 kg more rice instead of providing empty bags, prioritizing the welfare of the impoverished. Promises a BJP government that prioritizes the needs of the people, ensuring transparent and effective welfare distribution.
Fear of Ayushman Bharat and Deprivation of Schemes
Alleges that CM Naveen Patnaik is reluctant to implement Ayushman Bharat due to fear of diminishing popularity, prioritizing politics over public health. Promises implementation of Ayushman Bharat and other welfare schemes upon BJP’s ascent to power, ensuring comprehensive healthcare coverage for all. Accuses the current government of depriving the people of Odisha of essential schemes and services, pledging to rectify these injustices.
Plight of Odisha Farmers and Unresolved Issues
Shah highlights the dire situation faced by Odisha farmers, whose incomes lag behind those of farmers in other states. Criticizes the disparity in paddy procurement rates, citing Chhattisgarh’s higher rates as a model to emulate. Pledges comprehensive agricultural reforms under BJP governance, aimed at enhancing farmer incomes and agricultural productivity.
Ratna Bhandar Controversy and Transparency
Raises pertinent questions about transparency in the management of Ratna Bhandar in Puri, a revered religious institution. Promises to make the inquiry report public within six days of forming a BJP government in Odisha, ensuring accountability and justice. Asserts the importance of restoring public trust in religious institutions, safeguarding their sanctity and integrity.
Governance by Bureaucrats and Outsiders
Amit Shah questions Naveen Patnaik’s governance model, alleging that bureaucrats wield undue influence over the state’s affairs. Promises to prioritize Odia language and culture preservation under BJP rule, ensuring the empowerment and representation of the local populace. Emphasizes the need for inclusive governance, wherein the aspirations of the people drive policy decisions and governance priorities.
One Nation, One Ration Card and Migration
Advocates for the urgent implementation of One Nation, One Ration Card to alleviate the hardships faced by Odia migrants. Criticizes Naveen Patnaik for rice embezzlement by officers, underscoring the need for transparent and accountable governance. Pledges to streamline welfare distribution systems and eliminate corruption, ensuring that the benefits reach the intended beneficiaries in a timely manner.
Challenges Faced by Odisha: Unemployment, Lack of Infrastructure
Highlights the multifaceted challenges confronting Odisha, including unemployment, inadequate infrastructure, and lack of essential services. Promises comprehensive development initiatives aimed at creating employment opportunities, improving infrastructure, and enhancing quality of life for all citizens. Pledges to prioritize the needs of the people and address longstanding grievances, ushering in an era of inclusive and equitable growth under BJP governance.
Justice for Chit Fund Victims and Economic Support for Women
Vows to bring chit fund fraudsters to justice within 18 months of BJP assuming power, ensuring accountability and restitution for the victims. Announces Subhadra Yojana, offering cash vouchers of Rs 50,000 to women for educational purposes, empowering them to pursue their aspirations and dreams. Asserts the BJP’s commitment to gender equality and women’s empowerment, recognizing their pivotal role in nation-building and socio-economic development.
As Amit Shah’s scathing critique of Naveen Patnaik’s governance unfolds, it underscores the stark contrasts in vision, leadership, and governance priorities between the BJP and the incumbent government in Odisha. With elections looming, the battleground is set for a showdown between political rhetoric and public aspirations, where the electorate will ultimately decide the path forward for the state.
(With inputs from agencies)
