Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik is using the Dalits as a soft target. The untimely removal of BJD leader and Rajya Sabha member Bishnu Das is an example, said BJP State vice-president Samir Mohanty at a Press meet here on Friday.
Mohanty said that during Das’ time, other leaders also went to the Rajya Sabha. Many other party leaders are also representing the BJD in the Upper House. But by leaving others and asking Das’ resignation, the Chief Minister has exposed his callous attitude towards the Dalit and poor and exploited classes. By asking any other leader to resign, there would be strong resentment. So, to avoid that backlash the CM targeted Das.
It is the BJD’s internal matter whom it sends to the Rajya Sabha. But it is discussed in the political circles that Patnaik wants to send somebody from his family to the Rajya Sabha. This scheme would have disastrous consequences for the BJD. After the panchayat elections, it is clear that the people of the State want a big political change.
The poor, youths, Dalits and women have been attracted towards Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s pro-poor welfare schemes and are deserting the BJD. The chit fund scam kingpins rubbing shoulders with Patnaik has tarnished his honest and transparent image. This has been proved in the rural poll results. Now, the BJD does not have the guts to say there is no alternative to it.