With only a few days left for the first phase of the panchayat polls on February 13, campaigning by different political parties has reached a feverish pitch in tribal-dominated Koraput district.
Keeping aside the threat by Maoists, political leaders and workers remain engaged in holding public meetings, rallies, small meetings in villages and doing door-to-door campaigning to woo voters in favour of their candidates. Independent candidates are also no behind.
While banners, flexes, posters and pamphlets are seen nook and corners of villages, beating of tribal drums and singing of local songs have created a festive arena everywhere.
Congress MlA Tara Prasad Bahinipati has blamed that due to corruptions practices of BJD leaders, people in rural areas are suffering a lot in thedistrict. They have been deprived of welfare programmes and villages are yet to have pucca roads, safe drinking waters, electricity, and adequate healthcare facilities.
Former MlA and BJD leader Rabi Narayan Nanda and party’s district president Jayaram Pangi are banking solely on the image of Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik. “The State Government has always worked for the development of tribals, and we are sure to form the next Zilla Parishad in the district,” said Nanda.
Though political observers feel that there would be keen contests between the BJD and the Congress for many seats, yet BJP claims that it would have a good share in the ensuing polls.
“Both the BJD and the Congress have looted the State. People have understood this; BJP is the only alternative for them now. Welfare programmes of the Narendra Modi Government will help the BJP win a majority of seats this time,” said BJP State secretary Bhrugu Baxipatra.