BJD Under Naveen Dared The Nagging Odds Of 2021 And Steered Itself To Be The Most Enviable Political Entity

By D N Singh Like 2020, the year 2021 remained equally taxing for all amid the torrid time of Covid, Yet, politically, it was no less challenging for the ruling dispensation here under Naveen Patnaik. It was a straining mix of several issues daring the ruling apparatus and in many ways, Patnaik regime made its way through barring certain painful transitions due to the Covid as it did had an impact elsewhere in the country. Living up to his reputation, Naveen Patnaik regime, with the roll-over loads of worries, did tide over the crisis of the virus with appropriate moves and regained his credit of being a front-liner in dealing with the crisis.      Naveen Maintained To Be At Top When concerns over the pandemic had its priorities, understandably every wing of the administration rode over political issues to ensure a climate of wellbeing for the people. However, all through the battle against the virus Odisha has remained in the lead as regards gearing up against it through steps those were pioneering.  When Politics Took Back-Seat Politics, obviously, took the back-seat as the challenges from other aspects remained to be at the centre-stage and yet proved itself better than many.   It was a puzzling mix of fear and other contentious issues like incidents of crime and climatic threats trying to be as priorities. Certain incidents like the one in Paralakhmudi, Kalahandi etc were made to be daunting for the political administrators. To which Patnaik responded with caution and patience. However, such embers always keep smoldering and the opposition tries hard to bank on it.  Yet the chief minister has not stopped at that and through some break-the- new- ground initiative, has sharpened the edge of the laws aimed at protecting the safety of women in Odisha. With the slogan like ‘Maa Ku Samman’ the chief minister has initiated the basic thrust and that is making them self reliant.  His efforts are paying in essence, At the same time he took up the cudgel at curbing corruption in the administration and many heads rolled. Suspension and dismissal of eight government officials charged of severe irregularities blew the lid off sending the signal that, the chief minister’s obsession against corruption has no let ups. His penchant for stemming the rots in the system got reflected when the BJD legislator in Ganjam was shown his place along with the alleged accomplices.  Popularity Reproved The year witnessed three by-polls in the year when Covid was worrisome with its menace. But the BJD won all the three and added another feather by wresting the Balasore seat from the BJP. Which was no mere feat reflecting the unflinching loyalty of people towards the Chief Minister.  About the Author: DN Singh is a Bhubaneswar-based senior journalist. DISCLAIMER This is the personal opinion of the author. The views expressed in this write up have nothing to do with the www.prameyanews.com