PM Modi takes jibe at Naveen Patnaik
The people of Odisha wanted a Chief Minister who understood the state’s cultural traditions well, according to Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who stated on Monday that the BJD government’s days were running out.
“Odisha needs a Chief Minister who understands Odia language and culture,” Prime Minister Modi stated, taking a jab at his party’s erstwhile ally without specifically mentioning BJD president and Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik.
The Prime Minister made the harsh remarks during an election rally in Berhampur, Odisha. He is leading the BJP’s campaign in the state, which will see simultaneous assembly and Lok Sabha elections.
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“God has blessed Odisha abundantly with water, fertile land, minerals, a long coastline, history, and culture. However, why are the people of Odisha impoverished? Loot is the answer to this. First from Congress leaders and then from BJD leaders. Even small BJD leaders have big bungalows,” said PM Modi.
During a rally in Ganjam, the Prime Minister made an rare attack on BJD leader and Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik by questioning why laborers from his constituency, Hinjili, migrate to neighboring states.
“Why are doctors’ posts vacant in most hospitals here? Why do most children drop out of schools?”, he asked emphasizing that he has never hesitated to give Odisha funding for development projects.
According to the prime minister, women’s wellbeing is not a priority for the Odisha government. “Every pregnant woman receives an aid of ₹ 6,000 from the Center. You’ll be shocked to learn that this significant program has been halted by the Odisha government.,” said the PM.
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Although the BJD is not a part of the National Democratic Alliance at the moment, it has supported the government in Parliament on bills like the Delhi Services Bill and the Citizenship Amendment Act.
‘Expiry date of the BJD government is June 4’: PM Modi
The Prime Minister declared that the people of Odisha were prepared to oust the BJD government. He claimed that a leader of the saffron party will take the oath of office as Chief Minister following the announcement of the election results next month, expressing confidence that the BJP would win.
“After the elections, the BJP will form a double-engine government here. The expiry date of the BJD government is June 4, 2024,” PM Modi said.
