Chief Minister and Biju Janata Dal president Naveen Patnaik on Wednesday urged the party workers to come forward to cooperate with him in fulfilling Biju Patnaik’s dream of building a prosperous Odisha by utilising its natural resources.
Addressing a BJD meeting organised at the party headquarters here to commemorate Biju Patnaik’s 16th death anniversary, Naveen Patnaik said Bijubabu had dedicated his whole life for development of the State.
“Bijubabu brought revolutionary changes in the field of agriculture, industry, panchayati raj and women empowerment and wanted to see Odisha as a developed State in every respect by using its natural resources,” he said, adding that the BJD has been working relentlessly for the past 13 years to fullfil the legendary leader’s dream.
“We are launching a series of schemes for the benefit of the poor. Emphasis is being given on proper decentralisation of power at the grassroots levels besides due respect to women. As Bijubabu wanted to see more women participation in decision-making process, our Government has made a provision of 50 per cent reservation for women at the panchayat and municipal levels,” said Patnaik.
Several party leaders like Health Minister Damodar Rout, Information and Public Relations Minister Arun Kumar Sahoo, former Ministers AU Singh Deo and Prafulla Chandra Ghadai and the three MlAs from Bhubaneswar Ashok Panda, Bhagirathi Badjena and Bijay Mohanty slammed the Union Government for its alleged neglect to the State and vowed to fight for the State’s legitimate dues.
Earlier, Patnaik among other party leaders garlanded the statue of Biju Patnaik at the Forest Park.
Biju followers observed the occasion across the Sate by performing rituals and functions.