Bhubaneswar: Naveen Patnaik, the president of the Biju Janata Dal (BJD) and Leader of Opposition, has strongly criticized the leaders, ministers, and MPs of the Odisha BJP for their absence during the ongoing flooding crisis in the state.
In a post shared on his X account, Patnaik raised concerns about the BJP leaders’ decision to remain in Delhi while severe flooding wreaks havoc in Odisha.
“Are Odisha BJP leaders feasting in Delhi amid the horrors of the floods in Odisha?” he questioned.
Patnaik highlighted that the entire state is suffering from the impact of continuous heavy rainfall, indicating that both Chief Minister and prominent BJP leaders are currently in the capital. He stressed, “In such untimely circumstances, what could be more serious than the safety of their own people?”
The BJD leader noted that residents in several districts, including Mayurbhanj, Balasore, Bhadrak, Jajpur, Jharsuguda, and Dhenkanal, are enduring significant hardships. He expressed sorrow over reports indicating the loss of innocent lives due to the floods.
“Instead of standing firmly with the people during such an untimely calamity, accusations of government negligence are pouring in thick and fast,” Patnaik remarked.
He reiterated that the mantra of ‘Every Life is Valuable’ has guided Odisha’s response to natural disasters, a strategy that has garnered global recognition for the state. “Yet, the representatives elected by the people—failing to effectively manage the flood situation—are abandoning the people, leaving everyone stunned,” he alleged.
Patnaik called on the government to avoid being “insensitive” and to support the populace during this critical time.
