May 15th 2024.
In a recent statement, Kartik Pandian, a senior leader of the BJD and close associate of Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik, announced that Patnaik will be sworn in for his sixth term on June 9th. He also revealed that Patnaik's first order as Chief Minister will be to provide free electricity to 90% of the population in Odisha.
Pandian shared a video of his conversation with the Chief Minister during their visit to Deogarh district, where they discussed the upcoming term and the plans for the state. Speaking about the CM, Pandian said, "With the blessings of Mahaprabhu and your support, our beloved Naveen Babu will take oath on June 9th. His first order will be to provide free electricity to 90% of the population in Odisha, as well as extend the Biju Swasthya Kalyan Yojana to all, including government servants."
During the conversation, Patnaik added, "This is Naveen Patnaik's promise of bijili (electricity) and the conch symbol." This video was released after Samir Mohanty, a state BJP leader, questioned the BJD about their promise of free electricity.
Mohanty accused the BJD of deceiving the people with their "false" promise of free electricity for all. He demanded clarification from the party, asking, "How many people will actually benefit from this promise?" In their election manifesto, the BJD had promised to provide free electricity to all households consuming less than 100 units per month, and 50 units for those consuming between 100-150 units.
The party clarified that this initiative will benefit almost the entire rural population and also provide relief to urban households. They estimated that 85-90% of households in Odisha will be covered under this scheme, including farmers who heavily rely on agricultural pumps, particularly in western Odisha.
The BJD's manifesto also promises free electricity for farmers, which will greatly benefit the large number of farmers in the state. With these initiatives, the party aims to bring relief and progress to the people of Odisha. This is a promising start to Patnaik's sixth term as Chief Minister and shows the commitment of the BJD towards the development of the state.
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