Synopsis
On April 15, Odisha's Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi condemned the burning of Biju Patnaik's statue in Balangir. One arrest has been made, and stringent action against the culprits is assured, emphasizing the need for respect towards Odisha's leaders.Key Takeaways
- CM Majhi condemns statue desecration
- One arrest made in connection
- Demand for investigation into conspiracy
- BJD protests against the incident
- Celebrations for Biju Babu's legacy continue
Bhubaneswar, April 15 (NationPress) The Chief Minister of Odisha, Mohan Charan Majhi, expressed strong disapproval regarding the act of setting fire to the statue of former Chief Minister Biju Patnaik in the Patnagarh region of Balangir district on Tuesday.
Authorities have detained one individual related to this incident, which allegedly occurred in the early hours of Tuesday.
The Chief Minister’s Office (CMO) stated that CM Majhi emphasized that the perpetrator must be an odious and mentally unstable individual.
The Chief Minister has instructed the district police to implement strict measures against those responsible for this act.
As per the CMO, “Currently, one person has been apprehended regarding this incident. The Chief Minister has also mandated a thorough investigation to determine if a conspiracy exists behind this act.”
CM Majhi reiterated that the state government holds a deep respect for all the eminent figures from Odisha and is committed to ensuring they receive the honor they deserve.
In acknowledging the contributions of Biju Babu, the Chief Minister highlighted that the former Chief Minister’s birth anniversary was recently commemorated with great fervor on March 5. He actively participated in the celebrations, honoring Biju Babu.
Furthermore, the CMO announced that Biju Babu’s Shraddha Diwas will be observed with significant festivities on April 17.
The opposition party, Biju Janata Dal, also denounced the incident on Tuesday, labeling it a despicable act that has tarnished the pride and dignity of Odisha. They asserted that Biju Babu symbolizes Odia heritage.
BJD leader Sanjay Das Burma remarked that Biju Patnaik transcends party affiliations, being a highly respected leader in Odisha.
“The act of burning Biju Babu’s statue is not only a grievous crime but also a regrettable event that has undermined the self-respect and identity of Odisha. Insults to the esteemed legacy of Biju Babu have been occurring repeatedly under this government, and the government's silence is perplexing. This affront to the late Biju Babu has profoundly hurt the citizens of the state,” stated BJD leader Das Burma.
He demanded the immediate capture of all individuals involved in this appalling and regrettable act.
The BJD also organized a significant protest on Tuesday against the desecration and burning of the statue of the iconic leader Biju Patnaik in Patnagarh, Balangir district.
Prominent BJD leaders, including Party Media Affairs Head and former Minister Pratap Jena, Vice President Debi Prasad Mishra, National Spokesperson Santrupta Mishra, Chief Whip Pramila Mallick, along with numerous senior and youth leaders, convened near the Biju Patnaik statue at Biju Patnaik International Airport in Bhubaneswar to voice their protest.
