Ministers and BJD MlAs on Wednesday submitted a memorandum to President Pranab Mukherjee through Governor SC Jamir alleging neglect by the Centre in providing assistance to the calamity-ravaged State.
The ruling party leaders urged the President to direct the Union Government to release the demanded funds for restoration and renovation of infrastructures for people affected by cyclone and resultant floods.
“Eighteen districts have been affected following the twin calamities. The State Government has submitted a demand of more than `5,800 crore. However, the Centre is yet to grant any funds. Besides, no Union Minister including the Prime Minister visited the State,” alleged Revenue and Disaster Management Minister SN Patro.
“While the Centre announced assistance for Uttarakhand barely in two days after the calamity in that State, Odisha has not received a single rupee even after 25 days,” he said, adding “Is not it discriminationIJ” In a federal structure, the Centre should treat all States at par, he said.