Prime Minister Narendra Modi, addressing a mammoth public meeting at the local Chhow Padia here on Saturday, accused the Odisha Government of being negligent towards the safety and security of women in the State.
Condemning the Pipili gangrape incident, Modi said, “The victim has been denied justice. The Odisha Government should launch a probe into the case again to ensure justice for the victim.”
He added, “The Government in Odisha is not serious about women welfare programmes as the State is lagging behind in women education, health and employment.”
Highlighting the benefits of universal health coverage scheme Ayushman Bharat, Modi once again urged the Odisha Government to implement the Centre’s scheme in the State. “We will always work towards the development of Odisha.”
Many poor people are deprived of healthcare and the Odisha Government should think of how these people would benefit from Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana under Ayushman Bharat scheme. We must work together for a New India and a New Odisha,” the Prime Minister said. The projects launched in Odisha today will generate employment for educated youths.
“The number of developmental projects being implemented here will take Odisha to the height of development in the upcoming days. We need to maintain its speed and continue it,” Modi added.
He also paid tributes to the Maharaja of Mayurbhanj and spoke of Baripada Rathyatra, where women pull the chariot of Devi Subhadra every year. This, he said, is a shining example of dignity of women and women empowerment.
At the outset, Modi began his speech by saying “Jay Jagannath” and ‘Johar’. The meeting was presided over by State BJP president Basant Panda.
Earlier, at a function at the Government police ground here Modi dedicated to the nation a slew of projects worth Rs 4,500 crore including the Baleswar-Haldia-Durgapur section of LPG pipeline project of IOCL and the Balasore multi-modal logistics park.
He also inaugurated six post office Passport Seva Kendras. He also laid foundation for four laning of National Highways and other infrastructure projects. Governor Prof Ganeshi Lal , Union Minister Jual Oram and Dharmendra Pradhan and host of dignitaries were present.