PM Modi’s Decision to Not Ally with BJD: A Move for Odisha’s Future

News Mania Desk / Agnibeena Ghosh/27th May 2024

Prime Minister Narendra Modi recently addressed the Bharatiya Janata Party’s (BJP) decision to not form an alliance with Naveen Patnaik’s Biju Janata Dal (BJD) in Odisha. During an interview with ANI, Modi emphasized that his good relationship with the Odisha chief minister would not deter him from prioritizing the welfare of the state.

“We have good relations with leaders from all political parties in India, and in a democracy, we do not harbor enmity. However, the question is whether I should maintain these relations or prioritize Odisha’s future. I have chosen to devote myself to the bright future of Odisha, and if that requires sacrificing these relationships, I will do so,” Modi stated. He added that post-Lok Sabha elections, he would assure other leaders that he bears no animosity towards them.

Modi further asserted that a BJP chief minister would be sworn in on June 10, marking a significant change for Odisha. “Odisha’s fate is set to change. The government is changing. I have declared that the current Odisha government’s tenure will end on June 4. On June 10, a BJP chief minister will take oath,” he declared.

The Odisha assembly elections, involving 147 seats, are set to conclude on June 1, with results to be announced on June 4. Modi criticized the Naveen Patnaik-led government, stating that the state had seen no progress over the past 25 years.

“The most pressing issue is that a group has seized control of the entire Odisha system. It seems the whole system has been taken hostage. If Odisha breaks free from this, it will thrive,” Modi remarked. He highlighted the state’s abundant natural resources and lamented that despite this wealth, Odisha remained one of India’s poorest states. “Odisha should get its rightful place and identity,” he added.

Earlier this month, Modi challenged Patnaik to name Odisha’s districts and their respective capitals without referring to any documents, questioning the chief minister’s connection with the state and its people. “I challenge ‘Naveen Babu’ to name the districts of Odisha and their capitals without looking at paper. If he cannot, can he truly understand your pain? Can you trust your children’s future to such leaders? I urge you to give me a chance for five years,” Modi said during a rally in Kandhamal district.

In response, Patnaik criticized Modi, accusing him of neglecting Odisha. “Honorable Prime Minister, how much do you remember about Odisha? Despite Odia being a classical language, you have ignored it. You allotted ₹1,000 crore to Sanskrit but nothing to Odia. I have proposed the recognition of classical Odissi music twice, and both times you rejected it,” Patnaik stated.

Patnaik, who has served as Odisha’s chief minister since 2000, also questioned why the Modi government had overlooked honoring Odisha’s brave sons when it recently awarded the Bharat Ratna. This exchange highlights the growing political tension and the critical decisions that will shape Odisha’s future.

Modi’s decision to prioritize Odisha’s development over political alliances is a significant move. It underscores the need for effective governance and the prioritization of public welfare over political convenience. The upcoming elections will be a decisive moment for Odisha, potentially setting a new direction for the state’s future.

In conclusion, while political alliances and relationships play a crucial role in governance, they should not come at the expense of a state’s development and prosperity. Modi’s stance reflects a commitment to prioritizing Odisha’s welfare and ensuring that its resources and potential are harnessed for the benefit of its people. As the state prepares for elections, the focus should remain on choosing leaders who can drive progress and bring about meaningful change