BJD and BJP Clash Over Rescheduling Panchayati Raj Diwas to April 24
Click to start listening
Synopsis
The BJD has criticized Odisha's CM Mohan Majhi for rescheduling Panchayati Raj Diwas to April 24 instead of March 5, Biju Patnaik's birth anniversary. This move is seen as a disrespect to the late leader.
Key Takeaways
- BJD accuses Odisha government of disrespecting Biju Patnaik.
- Panchayati Raj Diwas has been celebrated on March 5 for 30 years.
- BJP defends the decision, aligning with national celebrations.
- BJD vows to challenge the decision until it is reconsidered.
- Congress supports the government but criticizes the cancellation of the holiday.
Bhubaneswar, March 4 (NationPress) The opposition party, Biju Janata Dal (BJD), has vehemently criticized the Odisha government led by Chief Minister Mohan Majhi for allegedly showing a lack of respect towards former Chief Minister late Biju Patnaik. The government’s decision to mark Panchayati Raj Diwas on April 24 instead of March 5, which is the birth anniversary of the revered leader, has sparked outrage.
During a press briefing on Tuesday, BJD leader Pratap Jena stated, “The choice to celebrate Panchayati Raj Diwas on April 24 instead of March 5 reflects the narrow-mindedness of the state government. For the past thirty years, Panchayati Raj Diwas has been observed in Odisha on the birth anniversary of Biju Babu. We also recognized this occasion on March 5 during the tenure of the BJD-BJP coalition from 2000 to 2009.”
Jena further asserted that the BJD will persist in raising this issue until the Odisha government re-evaluates its decision.
Senior BJD leader and Athagarh MLA Ranendra Pratap Swain said, “It’s unclear who the advisors of the BJP government are, to disrespect such a legendary figure both nationally and globally. Biju Babu was cremated adorned with the national flags of three nations: our Tricolour, along with those of Russia and Indonesia.”
Swain emphasized that Biju Patnaik transcended the borders of Odisha.
The senior legislator also pointed out that Biju Patnaik played a significant role in India’s freedom struggle.
In his critique of the ruling BJP, Swain remarked, “They are currently grappling with an identity crisis, lacking a prominent Odia leader to present to the state’s populace.”
He accused the BJP of attempting to diminish the legacy of Biju Patnaik, who was above party politics.
Responding to the BJD’s criticism, Revenue and Disaster Management Minister Suresh Pujari stated, “Odisha has consistently stood with the Centre. We have made substantial contributions to the nation. Thus, we align with the Centre like other states and observe Panchayati Raj Day on April 24 instead of March 5. Why should we diverge? If the entire nation celebrates on April 24, why should we choose another date?”
Pujari also confirmed that the Odisha Government would honor the esteemed Biju Patnaik on March 5.
On the other hand, the Congress party supported the government’s decision to hold Panchayati Raj Divas on April 24, but criticized the CM Mohan Majhi government for designating March 5, the birth anniversary of Biju Patnaik, as a working day by canceling the holiday.
