Naveen Patnaik Pays Tribute to Biju Patnaik, Raises Delimitation Concerns

Bhubaneswar: 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 immense contribution to Odisha and the nation.

Addressing party workers, Patnaik described Biju Patnaik as a “great son of the soil” and a towering personality who symbolized courage, patriotism, and self-respect. He said Biju Patnaik’s legacy continues to inspire generations and remains timeless.

Highlighting his contributions, Patnaik noted that Biju Patnaik had taken pioneering steps toward women’s empowerment as early as the 1990s. Referring to the Women’s Reservation Bill currently under discussion in Parliament, he said it was a significant coincidence that the issue was being debated on Biju Patnaik’s death anniversary.

Reiterating his party’s stand, Patnaik said the BJD has consistently supported women’s empowerment and fully backs the Women’s Reservation Bill.

The former Chief Minister also expressed concerns over the proposed delimitation exercise, stating that it raises serious questions about Odisha’s political identity and could impact the state’s self-respect. He said he had written to the Chief Minister, urging the convening of a special session of the State Assembly within 48 hours to pass a resolution safeguarding Odisha’s political interests.

He alleged that the state government has remained a “mute spectator” on the issue and is prioritizing the interests of the BJP over those of Odisha and its people.

Calling for unity, Patnaik appealed to all Members of Parliament from Odisha, cutting across party lines, to raise the matter strongly. He warned that failure to stand united at this critical juncture would not be forgiven by history.

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

Taking a swipe at estranged leaders claiming Biju Patnaik’s legacy, he alleged that some political figures in Odisha are playing a “role of betrayal,” adding that people are aware of their intentions.

He further stated that Odisha has historically faced neglect by successive Union governments and emphasized that the greatest tribute to Biju Patnaik would be a united effort to protect the state’s identity and interests.