Prime Minister Narendra Modi has voiced deep concerns regarding the perceived threat to Odia pride and language.
· The Prime Minister’s remarks come at a critical juncture when the essence of Odia identity faces challenges, necessitating concerted efforts to preserve and promote it.
· Amid discussions on the BJP’s relationship with the Biju Janata Dal (BJD), Modi clarified that their alliance was predominantly issue-based.
· Delving into Odisha’s vast potential, particularly in terms of natural resources, Modi lamented the discrepancy between its abundant assets and its current developmental trajectory.
· Echoing the BJP’s commitment to transformative governance, Modi underscored the party’s aspiration to lead Odisha towards comprehensive development.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi has voiced deep concerns regarding the perceived threat to Odia pride and language, stressing the urgency of protecting these cultural treasures. In an exclusive interview with a national news channel, Modi brought attention to the vulnerability faced by Odia culture, stating, “Odia language and Odisha’s asmita (pride) are under threat. I don’t think Odisha people will tolerate it for long.”
The Prime Minister’s remarks come at a critical juncture when the essence of Odia identity faces challenges, necessitating concerted efforts to preserve and promote it. Recognizing the significance of Odisha’s cultural heritage, Modi emphasized the need for proactive measures to safeguard Odia language and the values it represents.
Amid discussions on the BJP’s relationship with the Biju Janata Dal (BJD), Modi clarified that their alliance was predominantly issue-based. While acknowledging the support received from the BJD on certain matters, Modi highlighted the distinctive nature of their association within the political landscape of Odisha.
Delving into Odisha’s vast potential, particularly in terms of natural resources, Modi lamented the discrepancy between its abundant assets and its current developmental trajectory. Despite Odisha’s rich mineral wealth, he noted with concern its lag in various developmental indicators, expressing a vision to elevate the state to the forefront of progress.
Echoing the BJP’s commitment to transformative governance, Modi underscored the party’s aspiration to lead Odisha towards comprehensive development. Emphasizing the need for inclusive growth and equitable opportunities, he outlined the BJP’s agenda to empower Odisha’s citizens and unlock the state’s full potential.
The Prime Minister’s statements coincide with a period of heightened activism among BJP leaders in Odisha, who have been vocal in advocating for the preservation of Odia identity and pride. This renewed focus on cultural preservation reflects a broader commitment within the BJP to honor and celebrate India’s linguistic and cultural diversity.
While the Prime Minister’s remarks resonate with many who share his concerns about the preservation of Odia heritage, they also underscore the complexity of the political landscape in Odisha. The absence of comments from the BJD further underscores the divergent perspectives within the state’s political discourse, highlighting the nuanced challenges facing Odisha’s cultural and linguistic landscape.
(With inputs from agencies)
