March 5th 2025.
Naveen Patnaik, the president of BJD, expressed his disappointment towards the BJP government in Odisha for their recent decision to separate Biju Patnaik's name from Panchayati Raj Divas. On the 109th birth anniversary of his father, former chief minister Biju Patnaik, Patnaik addressed his party members and criticized the government's actions, calling it "immature politics with small minds."
He pointed out that for the past 30 years, Odisha has celebrated Panchayati Raj Divas on March 5 in honor of Biju Babu's birthday. However, the BJP government has now changed the date to April 24, which Patnaik strongly disapproved of. He emphasized that no matter how many times they change the names of awards or deface statues, the love and affection the people of Odisha have for Biju Babu cannot be taken away. He lives in their hearts, and no decision can change that.
Patnaik also criticized the government's attempt to rename the Biju Krida Puraskar, an award given to athletes in the state. He stated that it was unfortunate that the government, shortly after coming to power, tried to change the name of the award. However, due to strong protests from the people, they were forced to retract their decision.
As the younger son of Biju Patnaik, the BJD president strongly condemned the recent incidents of vandalism against statues of his late father. He expressed his disappointment that no action has been taken against the culprits and then questioned the reason behind the government's decision to change the date of Panchayati Raj Divas celebrations.
Patnaik firmly stated that these incidents have only strengthened the people's love and respect for Biju Patnaik. He shared an incident where he had shifted his father's samadhi from Puri's Swarga Dwar due to public interest. He explained that Biju Babu's legacy lives on in the hearts of the people, not in stones and monuments.
He accused the BJP government of trying to erase Biju Patnaik's legacy by asking if they can shut down Paradip Port, Hindustan Aeronautics Limited, NTPC, OUAT, and NIT. He also questioned their attempt to deny reservation for women in panchayat bodies, which was introduced by Biju Babu himself. He then asked, "Can you erase the fact that Biju Babu was a freedom fighter who was jailed for independence?" and called their actions "immature politics and small-mindedness."
Patnaik reminded the audience of his father's deep commitment to an empowered Panchayati Raj system and how it reflects the strength of democracy. He emphasized that Biju Babu's contribution to strengthening the system cannot be ignored and is an integral part of his legacy.
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