The Aryavarth Express
Agency (Odisha): Prime Minister Narendra Modi confidently declared that the Biju Janata Dal (BJD) government in Odisha will come to an end on June 4, the day election results are announced. Addressing his first election rally in Odisha, Modi asked voters to consider giving the BJP a chance to govern the state and promised a “double-engine government” focused on making Odisha India’s leading state.
Modi urged, “You have given 50 years to Congress and 25 years to BJD. Just give five years to the BJP, and we will make Odisha the number one state in the country.”
The Prime Minister emphasized Odisha’s vast potential, citing its fertile land, rich mineral resources, and coastal access. However, he lamented that the state continues to lag due to poor governance. He pointed out that despite the Center allocating Rs 10,000 crore under the ‘Jal Jeevan Mission,’ the BJD government failed to manage and spend the funds effectively.
Modi also criticized Odisha’s lack of participation in the Ayushman Bharat Yojana, which aims to provide healthcare coverage. He promised that if the BJP wins, they will immediately implement the scheme upon taking office on June 10.
Highlighting BJP’s “visionary manifesto” for Odisha, Modi said it offers solutions for job creation, women’s empowerment, and senior citizen healthcare. He further asserted that the state’s “backwardness” is due to the mismanagement of the previous Congress and current BJD governments.
He acknowledged BJD President and Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik’s contributions but emphasized the need for a leader who truly understands the Odia language and culture.
In response to Modi’s statements, Naveen Patnaik’s close aide, VK Pandian, declared that Patnaik will be sworn in for a sixth consecutive term on June 9.
The assembly and Lok Sabha elections in Odisha will be conducted concurrently.