BJD to play important role in formation of next govt at centre, says Naveen Patnaik

Odisha Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik. 

Mr. Patnaik said, “this time no national party would be able to win majority in Lok Sabha election.”

Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik on Sunday said the Biju Janata Dal (BJD) would play an important role in formation of the next government at centre as no national party would be able to win a majority in the election.

Launching a formal election campaign of the party in Nayagarh district, Mr. Patnaik said, “this time no national party would be able to win majority in Lok Sabha election. We will have decisive role to play in formation of the next government at centre.”

“This will be a golden opportunity for us. The BJD will win 21 out of 21 Lok Sabha seats in Odisha,” said the BJD supremo. “We will end the historical injustice meted out to Odisha for all time to come,” he said.

“We have been fighting for getting special category status. If Odisha is accorded special category status, the State would be hugely benefited. Youths will get employment and more funds would flow into State for development,” said Mr. Patnaik.

“The BJP had promised special category status for Odisha in its manifesto. But when it formed government at centre, it forgot to fulfill the commitment,” said BJD chief.

“Odisha has the worst railway network in entire country. However, Indian Railways is earning highest profit from Odisha. The Indian Railway is earning ₹20,000 crore, but Odisha is getting only Rs. 1000 crore. Funds are being spent in other States. Isn’t it central negligence,” he asked.

Similarly, central government is collecting thousands crore of revenue from coal sector whereas Odisha is getting pollution and dust, Mr. Patnaik said.

“BJP leaders cannot fight for the rights of Odisha. They are controlled by high command sitting in New Delhi. The BJD is of Odisha and our high command is Odias. Our remote control lies with 4.5 crore people of the State. We have been fighting for Odia pride and interest of Odisha,” said BJD chief.

Stating that he was keeping a tab on implementation of Krushak Assistance for Livelihood and Income Augmentation (KALIA) scheme, Mr. Patnaik assured that no famer would be left out in the direct benefit transfer scheme.

“Some opposition parties are spreading lies about KALIA. Nobody can stop KALIA. All farmers will surely get KALIA assistance,” he asserted.