Senior BJP Leader Slams Odisha Government as ‘Arrogant’ Ahead of Elections
Senior Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leader and union education minister Dharmendra Pradhan criticized the ruling Biju Janata Dal (BJD) in Odisha, calling them arrogant and predicting their defeat in the upcoming Lok Sabha and Assembly elections. Pradhan, addressing party workers at a joining ceremony in Bhubaneswar, accused the BJD government of increasing crime against women and widespread corruption. He also alleged a cover-up in the murder of teacher Mamita Meher in Kalahandi district, blaming senior officers of the Odisha government and BJD politicians for torturing the girl and burying her body in a field. Pradhan criticized Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik for his silence regarding unlawful activities carried out by his party members, highlighting an incident in which police officers were beaten up. He stated that the people of Odisha will not tolerate arrogance and that the ruling party will be taught a lesson in the upcoming elections. Pradhan further pointed out that Odisha ranks among the top three states in terms of atrocities against women, questioning the transformation promised by Chief Minister Patnaik.
In response, BJD leader Mujibulla Khan dismissed Pradhan’s comments as political maneuvers to rally BJP workers ahead of the simultaneous Lok Sabha and Assembly elections this year. Khan expressed confidence that the people of Odisha would continue to support Naveen Patnaik as their Chief Minister.
This follows Pradhan’s recent criticism of the Odisha government over the distribution of free rice to the state’s residents. He accused the government of misleading the public by claiming credit for the rice provided by the central government. Pradhan argued that such deceit should not occur in a democratic system and stated that the people have recognized this manipulation and will increasingly support Prime Minister Narendra Modi.
As the Lok Sabha and Assembly elections draw near, the heated exchange between the BJP and BJD emphasizes the intense political competition in Odisha. With allegations of corruption, unlawful activities, and mishandling of crimes against women, the electorate will play a crucial role in deciding the future of the state. Voters will have the opportunity to assess the claims made by both parties and determine which vision they believe will bring about a better future for Odisha. The results of the elections will undoubtedly shape the political landscape of the state for years to come.
