BJP Leaders Intensify Attack Against Naveen Patnaik Government Ahead of Odisha Polls

By [Assistant Name]

As the third phase of polling for the Odisha Assembly and Lok Sabha elections approaches, BJP stalwarts have escalated their criticism of the Naveen Patnaik-led government. Prominent leaders, including Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma, and BJP National President J.P. Nadda, have rallied to urge voters to choose a “double-engine government” in Odisha—one that promises accelerated development and freedom from bureaucratic dominance.

Targeting Bureaucracy and “Officer Raj”

The BJP’s attack centers on the alleged influence of bureaucrats in running the state government. Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan questioned why Odisha Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik, who leads a regional party, cannot find capable legislators or MPs within the Biju Janata Dal (BJD) to lead the state. Pradhan emphasized that the bureaucracy’s control was detrimental to Odia identity and pride.

The Puri Jagannath Temple Issue

The BJP leaders also directed their criticism toward V.K. Pandian, Naveen Patnaik’s close aide and chief strategist. They raised concerns about the Puri Shree Jagannath Temple, recognizing its emotional significance to Odias. Yogi Adityanath, addressing rallies in Chilika and Kendrapara, highlighted the need to combat the “Babu Raj” in Odisha, emphasizing that administrative officials should not wield excessive power.

Corruption, Mafia Raj, and Dictatorship

Yogi Adityanath warned that when bureaucrats dominate a parliamentary democracy, it leads to corruption, mafia influence, and dictatorship. He advocated for a “double-engine government” to take decisive action against land, sand, forest, and cattle mafias in Odisha. Additionally, he criticized the Naveen government for excluding Odisha from the Ayushman Bharat Yojana and raised concerns about the missing keys to the Puri Jagannath temple’s treasure trove.

Assam Chief Minister’s Allegations

Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma accused Naveen Patnaik of being in a “hostage situation.” He claimed that Pandian’s constant presence prevented the Odisha CM from meeting others independently. Sarma suggested that the High Court should assess whether Naveen Patnaik was content or held hostage. He further predicted the collapse of the BJD after the election.

BJP’s Vision for Odisha

BJP National President J.P. Nadda expressed confidence that the people of Odisha would vote for change. He praised Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s focus on development, contrasting it with past divisive politics. Nadda urged voters to give Naveen Patnaik “rest” and support the BJP.

Revenge at the Polls

In response, V.K. Pandian warned that voters would not forgive leaders who insulted Naveen Patnaik. He hinted at retaliation during the voting process.

On May 25, Odisha will witness polling for six Lok Sabha seats (Sambalpur, Keonjhar, Dhenkanal, Cuttack, Puri, and Bhubaneswar) and 42 Assembly seats. Nearly 98.48 lakh voters will exercise their right to vote.