Naveen Patnaik remembers Biju Patnaik, raises delimitation concerns

Bhubaneswar, April 17 Biju Janata Dal (BJD) President Naveen Patnaik on Friday paid rich tributes to legendary leader and former Chief Minister Biju Patnaik on his death anniversary, recalling his unmatched contribution to the nation and Odisha.

Addressing the party workers on the occasion, Patnaik offered his deep respect to the “great son of the soil”, describing Biju Patnaik as a towering personality and a symbol of courage, patriotism, and self-respect. He said Biju Babu’s legacy continues to inspire generations and will remain immortal.

Highlighting his contributions, Patnaik noted that Biju Patnaik had played a pioneering role in women’s empowerment in the country as early as the 1990s.

“It's a matter of coincidence that the Parliament is taking up the Women Reservation Bill during the death anniversary of Biju Babu. In fact, Biju Babu had played a pioneering role in the country for women's empowerment long back in the 90s. BJD strongly believes in the empowerment of women. Thus, we extend our support to the Women's Reservation Bill,” said Patnaik.

The BJD president also expressed strong apprehensions over the proposed delimitation exercise, stating that it has created a “big question mark” over the political identity of Odias and posed a threat to Odia self-respect.

Patnaik revealed that he had written to the Chief Minister recently, urging him to convene a special session of the State Assembly within 48 hours to pass a resolution safeguarding Odisha’s political interests in the delimitation process. He alleged that the state government appears to be a “mute spectator” and is more focused on protecting the interests of the BJP rather than those of Odisha and its people.

Calling for unity, the BJD leader appealed to all Members of Parliament from Odisha, irrespective of party lines, to strongly raise the issue. “If we fail to stand united at this critical juncture, history will not forgive us,” he warned.

Describing Biju Patnaik’s personality, Patnaik said he was as vast as the sky, as tolerant as the earth, and as towering as the Himalayas.

Meanwhile, the BJD supremo took a swipe at estranged leaders claiming Biju legacy, alleging that some individuals in Odisha politics are always comfortable playing a “role of betrayal”, and added that people are aware of their true intentions.

Raising concerns over Odisha’s political standing, Patnaik said the state has historically faced neglect by successive Union governments.

Concluding his address, Patnaik said Biju Patnaik was the embodiment of Odia pride, and the greatest tribute to him would be a united fight to protect the interests and identity of Odisha.

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