Why Did BJD MP Sasmit Patra Criticize the Union Budget?
Synopsis
BJD MP Sasmit Patra's stark criticism of the Union Budget highlights Odisha's exclusion from key infrastructure projects despite its significant electoral backing. His concerns raise questions about the state's development priorities and the fair allocation of resources.
Key Takeaways
Odisha was criticized for being excluded from major infrastructure projects .
Sasmit Patra highlighted the state's significant contribution to the BJP .
Concerns raised about the Rare Earth Minerals project and its benefits.
Criticism of the exclusion of archaeological sites from development.
Call for a reassessment of the Union Budget for equitable development.
Bhubaneswar, Feb 1 (NationPress) Senior leader of the Biju Janata Dal (BJD) and Rajya Sabha MP Sasmit Patra expressed profound discontent regarding the Union Budget for 2026-27, claiming that Odisha was entirely overlooked despite its considerable role in contributing to the electoral victory of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP)-led central government.
In his remarks following the budget presentation by Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman, Patra stated to IANS that while numerous states and cities across India have benefitted from major infrastructure and development initiatives, Odisha received no significant funding.
He pointed out that high-speed rail corridors were proposed for cities like Mumbai, Pune, Hyderabad, Bengaluru, Chennai, Delhi, Varanasi, and Siliguri, yet Odisha was conspicuously absent from these plans.
Patra further highlighted that a ship repair ecosystem was announced for Varanasi and Patna, while dedicated freight corridors were approved between Dankuni in West Bengal and Surat in Gujarat.
“Additionally, Durgapur will benefit from the proposed East Coast Industrial Corridor, leaving Odisha excluded from all major connectivity and industrial projects,” he remarked.
He also pointed out that although 15 archaeological sites have been earmarked for development nationwide, none from Odisha made the list.
Criticizing the omission of Odisha from the Buddhist circuit, Patra emphasized the state’s rich Buddhist heritage with sites like Lalitgiri, Ratnagiri, and Udayagiri being overlooked.
He questioned the advantages of the new Rare Earth Minerals project for Odisha's farmers and tribal communities, suggesting that such projects primarily cater to the extraction and transportation of the state's mineral wealth without providing adequate returns.
“It is stated that inland waterways will be developed to facilitate the movement of minerals from Talcher and Angul to Kalinganagar and onward to Dhamra and Paradeep. However, while our resources are being taken, what are we receiving in exchange? Nothing...” Patra asserted.
He expressed concerns regarding the stagnation of tourism projects, such as the Konark Temple, which was identified as a key tourist destination four years ago, yet remains without development.
He also mentioned the suspension of the Bhubaneswar Metro project.
Noting that Odisha sent 20 of its 21 Lok Sabha MPs from the BJP to Parliament, Patra criticized the lack of returns for the state.
He called for a reassessment of the Union Budget to ensure equitable and inclusive development for Odisha.
Point of View
Sasmit Patra's statements reflect a growing concern among regional leaders regarding equitable resource distribution in national budgets. It is imperative for the central government to address the needs of all states to ensure balanced development and maintain political goodwill, especially from states that significantly contribute to the ruling party's success.
NationPress
8 May 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
What did Sasmit Patra criticize about the Union Budget?
Sasmit Patra criticized the Union Budget for 2026-27, claiming that Odisha was overlooked and did not receive any significant funding for infrastructure or development projects.
Which states received funding according to Patra?
Patra noted that several states, including Mumbai, Pune, and Hyderabad, received major infrastructure projects, while Odisha was excluded.
What heritage sites were mentioned in the criticism?
Patra highlighted that prominent Buddhist heritage sites in Odisha, such as Lalitgiri, Ratnagiri, and Udayagiri, were overlooked in the proposed Buddhist circuit.
What concerns did Patra raise about the Rare Earth Minerals project?
Patra raised concerns that the Rare Earth Minerals project primarily benefits mineral extraction and transportation without adequate returns for Odisha's farmers and tribal communities.
What did Patra demand regarding the Union Budget?
Patra demanded a re-evaluation of the Union Budget to ensure fair and inclusive development for Odisha.
