Naveen Patnaik Critiques Odisha Government for Undermining Biju Babu's Legacy
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Synopsis
On March 5, Naveen Patnaik criticized the BJP-led Odisha government for allegedly trying to erase the legacy of Biju Patnaik. He condemned the change of Panchayati Raj Diwas date and voiced concerns over potential renaming of important institutions linked to Biju Babu's contributions.
Key Takeaways
- Naveen Patnaik criticizes the BJP government.
- Change of Panchayati Raj Diwas date sparks controversy.
- Accusations of attempting to erase Biju Patnaik's legacy.
- Call for accountability over vandalism of Biju Patnaik's statues.
- Emphasis on Biju Babu's historical impact.
Bhubaneswar, March 5 (NationPress) The Leader of Opposition in the Odisha Assembly and former Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik delivered a fierce critique of the BJP-led state government on Wednesday, accusing it of attempting to diminish the legacy of the iconic Biju Patnaik, affectionately known as Biju Babu.
He condemned the state government for shifting the celebration date of Panchayati Raj Diwas from March 5, which marks the birth anniversary of Biju Patnaik, to April 24.
During a special event at the headquarters of Biju Janata Dal (BJD) to commemorate the 109th birth anniversary of his father, Biju Patnaik, LoP Patnaik launched a sharp attack against the state administration.
Addressing BJD leaders and supporters at the event, LoP Patnaik remarked, "You have altered the date of Panchayati Raj Diwas to erase the legacy of the great Biju Patnaik. Can you close Paradip Port? Can you shut down Hindustan Aeronautics Limited, Sunabeda? Can you close NTPC, Talcher? Can you shut down OUAT and NIT, Rourkela? Can you deny reservation for women in Panchayat bodies, which Biju Babu initiated?"
He emphasized that March 5 has been celebrated as Panchayati Raj Diwas since 1993. "For over 30 years, this date has been part of our history. What is the reasoning behind this change?" he questioned.
The BJD leader accused the state government of planning to rename the Biju Patnaik International Airport in Bhubaneswar.
"Now you are even attempting to rename Biju Patnaik International Airport! Can you erase the history that Biju Babu was a freedom fighter who was imprisoned for India’s independence? This is merely childish politics," he added.
He claimed that after the BJP came to power in the state, there was an attempt to change the name of the Biju Krida Puraskar, but the decision was retracted following public outcry.
Furthermore, he criticized the government for its "failure" to hold accountable those responsible for the recent vandalism of statues of the late Biju Patnaik.
"Let me be clear—you can change award names, deface his statues, and alter dates. But you cannot erase the love and respect that the people of Odisha hold for Biju Babu. He resides in their hearts. How will you change that? These actions have only reinforced the people's love for him," he stated.
Highlighting the contribution of Biju Babu to the Indonesian freedom struggle, he remarked that the legendary Odia leader elevated Odisha's identity.
The BJD leader also affirmed that Biju Babu made historical strides in India by empowering the Panchayati Raj system and instituting 33 percent reservation for women.
He asserted that Biju Babu's contributions to fortifying this system are undeniable.
