Odisha Chief Minister’s Strong Response to PM Modi’s Dare

Odisha Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik issued a firm response to Prime Minister Narendra Modi‘s challenge during recent election rallies in the state. Patnaik, leader of the Biju Janata Dal, highlighted the importance of Odia culture and language, accusing the PM of neglecting the classical language. He emphasized that despite Odia being a classical language, the government had allocated Rs 1,000 crore to Sanskrit but nothing to Odia.

Responding to PM Modi’s remarks on Odisha’s rich resources and the need for a new leadership, Patnaik pointed out the discrepancy in royalty on coal extraction, a key natural resource of the state. He also criticized the rejection of proposals for the recognition of classical Odissi music.

Prime Minister Modi, in his campaign speech, challenged Patnaik to name Odisha’s districts and their respective headquarters without reading from a script. Modi questioned the incumbent CM’s understanding of Odia culture and language, suggesting a disconnect with the state’s heritage.

The PM’s visit to Odisha, ahead of the first phase of polling, included strong statements about governance in the state. Modi criticized the alleged outsourced authority within the Odisha government and raised concerns about the handling of the Ratna Bhandar, the inner treasury of the Shree Jagannath Mandir in Puri.

Highlighting the potential for Odisha’s growth, Modi compared the state’s resources to that of Gujarat, emphasizing the need for local leadership connected to the people. The PM rallied for support for the BJP in Odisha and nationwide, urging citizens to participate in shaping the state’s future.