Naveen Patnaik Slams Odisha Government for Dropping Biju Patnaik’s Name from Panchayati Raj Day, Calls It ‘Immature Politics’

Former Odisha Chief Minister and Biju Janata Dal (BJD) leader Naveen Patnaik has strongly opposed the Odisha government’s decision to remove Biju Patnaik’s name from Panchayati Raj Day celebrations. He condemned the move as “immature politics”, emphasizing that the legacy of Biju Babu remains deeply rooted in the hearts of the people.

Naveen Patnaik Questions the Change in Date

Naveen Patnaik highlighted that March 5 has been recognized as Panchayati Raj Day since 1993 to honor his father Biju Patnaik’s birth anniversary. He questioned the logic behind shifting the date to April 24, which aligns with the national calendar.

“For over 30 years, Odisha has celebrated this day. Why this sudden change now?” Naveen asked.

Describing his father as a tall leader with a big heart, he insisted that Biju Patnaik’s contributions to Odisha cannot be erased by political decisions.

Attack on Biju Patnaik’s Legacy?

The BJD chief also pointed out recent incidents of vandalism against Biju Patnaik’s statues, accusing the government of inaction against those responsible.

He also recalled that a previous attempt was made to rename the Biju Sports Awards, which was later revoked after public backlash.

Biju Patnaik’s Key Contributions to Odisha

Naveen Patnaik listed several landmark achievements of Biju Patnaik, proving his lasting impact on Odisha’s progress:

Development of Paradip Port – A major boost to Odisha’s maritime economy.
Establishment of HAL Sunabeda – Strengthening India’s defense and aviation sector.
Setting up NTPC Talcher – Ensuring energy security for Odisha.
Founding Odisha University of Agriculture and Technology (OUAT) – Advancing agricultural research and education.
Creating NIT Rourkela – Promoting technical education in Odisha.
Introducing Women’s Reservation in Panchayat Bodies – Empowering women in rural governance.

Naveen Patnaik emphasized that Biju Patnaik was not just a state or national leader, but an international icon, known for his visionary leadership and bold decisions.

Government Defends Its Decision

Following the controversy, Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi paid tribute to Biju Patnaik, acknowledging his role in industrializing Odisha.

Meanwhile, Panchayati Raj and Rural Development Minister Rabi Narayan Naik defended the government’s stance, stating:

“There is no intention to diminish Biju Patnaik’s contributions. However, while Biju Babu strengthened panchayats, the BJD has weakened grassroots democracy.”