Bhubaneswar, August 31: Opposition leader Naveen Patnaik voiced deep concerns about the increasing communal tensions in Odisha under the BJP government. Addressing the assembly during the Home Department's grant debate, Patnaik emphasized that Odisha has long been a state known for its peace and communal harmony.
Patnaik highlighted a series of incidents that have marred the state since the BJP assumed power. "Shortly after the BJP government took office, we witnessed communal unrest in Balasore district and other parts of Odisha. More recently, a tragic incident occurred in Khurda district where a man was murdered in a communal clash. This is alarming and needs to be addressed immediately," Patnaik remarked.
He underscored the importance of maintaining Odisha's legacy of communal peace at all costs.
Patnaik further criticized the government for its inaction regarding an alleged incident involving the son of Governor Raghubar Das. "There are serious allegations that the Governor’s son violently attacked and humiliated an officer during the Rath Yatra in Puri. My question is, are the laws different for the relatives of high-ranking officials? Are they above prosecution? If this is the case, the people of Odisha have the right to know," he said.
Reflecting on his tenure as Chief Minister, Patnaik claimed that no one was above the law during his administration. "Anyone found guilty was held accountable. The current Chief Minister, who also holds the Home portfolio, should take note of these issues, including the recent rape and murder of a minor. These are serious concerns that were unheard of during our government," Patnaik asserted.
Patnaik also expressed dismay over the recent incident during the Rath Yatra in Puri, where the idol of Lord Balabhadra toppled, saying, "This has deeply hurt millions of devotees in Odisha and across the country."
He also raised concerns about the recent spurious liquor tragedy in Ganjam district that claimed three lives, pointing out that his government had always taken a firm stance against illicit liquor in the state.
