Is Naveen Patnaik Criticizing the Odisha Government's Performance?
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Synopsis
In a recent address, Naveen Patnaik, the Leader of Opposition in Odisha, criticized the state government for its lack of genuine progress in various sectors. He emphasized that development cannot be achieved merely through speeches and advertisements, highlighting issues in healthcare, women's empowerment, and agricultural support.
Key Takeaways
- Naveen Patnaik criticizes the Odisha government for lack of genuine development.
- The healthcare sector has reportedly deteriorated under the current administration.
- Women's empowerment initiatives are facing setbacks, according to Patnaik.
- Farmers are allegedly being neglected, with promises unfulfilled.
- Patnaik highlights economic improvements made by the BJD during their governance.
Bhubaneswar, June 10 (NationPress) The Leader of Opposition (LoP) in the Odisha Assembly and former Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik took aim at the state government on Tuesday, asserting that true development cannot be achieved through lengthy speeches and flashy advertisements.
While addressing party leaders at Sankha Bhavan, Patnaik raised concerns regarding the various claims of accomplishments made by the BJP government led by Chief Minister Mohan Majhi in Odisha.
Reflecting on the first year of the BJP administration, the BJD leader stated, “Though it is branded as a government for the people, where are the voices of the people? Genuine development does not stem from grand speeches and polished ads.”
Patnaik went on to claim that the healthcare sector in Odisha has seen a significant decline over the past year under the BJP's governance.
He emphasized the deterioration of healthcare services by saying, “When we were in charge, 90 percent of Odisha’s population benefited from the Biju Swasthya Kalyan Yojana. Today, even with Ayushman Bharat in effect, people struggle to access medications, and hospitals are not providing free treatment.”
“Countless individuals are in distress — mothers, the elderly, children, and cancer patients. The health system has crumbled. Out of 30 districts, 19 CDMO positions remain unfilled. Is this what they call success?”
On the subject of women’s empowerment, he mentioned that under 'Mission Shakti', 7 million women were uplifted. However, in just one year, this initiative has lost momentum, with women facing challenges in banks and government offices.
“Many who once traveled to Dubai and Singapore now find themselves despondent at home, their self-esteem diminished. This is being called an achievement by the government,” Patnaik asserted.
The BJD President also questioned the government’s dedication to farmers, wondering what happened to the promises made by the ruling BJP during the elections to eliminate middlemen and guarantee MSP for all.
Patnaik accused the state government of neglecting farmers, who now depend on millers.
“Even securing agricultural loans has become a challenge. Under BJD, Odisha witnessed unprecedented irrigation levels. Yet, ongoing projects are stalled,” Patnaik claimed.
He highlighted his government’s successes in the economic sector, stating that when the BJD took over in 2000, the state was burdened with a debt of ₹18,000 crore and was operating on overdrafts.
“By 2024, we left a surplus of ₹45,000 crore. But currently, the government is again incurring massive debts. In 2005-06, Odisha's poverty rate was 63.83 percent. By 2023, it dropped to 11.07 percent, lifting over 10 million people above the poverty line. We made substantial progress in IMR, MMR, and other developmental metrics,” Patnaik added.
He stated that the BJD is committed to being a responsible opposition as mandated by the citizens of Odisha and encouraged party leaders and grassroots workers to remain dedicated to serving the populace.
Point of View
It's crucial to recognize the importance of accountability in governance. Naveen Patnaik's remarks underscore the need for transparency and tangible results in public service. As the opposition, the BJD has a responsibility to challenge the ruling government while also offering constructive solutions to the issues raised.
NationPress
11/06/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What sectors did Naveen Patnaik criticize?
Naveen Patnaik criticized the healthcare sector, women's empowerment initiatives, and the government's support for farmers.
What was the main argument of Patnaik's speech?
Patnaik argued that development cannot be achieved through speeches and advertisements, but requires tangible actions and results.
How did Patnaik address the healthcare situation in Odisha?
He highlighted the rapid deterioration of healthcare services, citing the lack of access to medicines and vacant positions in the healthcare system.
What impact did Patnaik claim the government has had on women's empowerment?
He stated that the 'Mission Shakti' initiative has weakened, leaving women facing difficulties in banks and government offices.
What economic achievements did Patnaik mention?
He noted that when the BJD took over, Odisha had significant debt, but by 2024 they left a surplus, highlighting improvements in poverty rates.
