Kalinga Sena reiterated its demand for establishment of a Kalinga Regiment in the State which will benefit the Odias and especially, those from the tribal belt, who are good warriors. It also demanded establishment of military stations in the State.
Kalinga Sena vice president Col BJ Singh said at a Press conference here that Odisha has a rich tradition of valour and soldiering. It is unfortunate that till date no regiment of Odia people has been formed though pure Odia companies exist in Indian Army. Even, a small State like Nagaland has its own Naga regiment, he added.
“Odias are in sizeable strength in Indian Army. So demanding a Kalinga regiment is justified,” said Singh, adding, “Youth from Maoist-affected districts will have better opportunity to join defence forces which will enhance the image of the country towards national integration.”
Singh advocated for establishment of at least a single unit of Indian Army, Air Force and Navy. He also stressed on welfare of retired soldiers and widows.
Besides, Singh demanded canteen facility, club and transit accommodation at Bhubaneswar, more ex-servicemen contributory health scheme (ECHS) polyclinics, formation of Rajya Sainik or District Soldier Boards, job opportunity for widows and veterans, establishment of Army Recruiting Organisation, issuance or renewal of gun licence to serving as well as ex-servicemen on priority and patient hearing and disposal of problems of serving and ex-servicemen by the administration.
