Akhilesh Yadav Hails Naveen Patnaik’s Legacy, Slams BJP’s Divisive Politics in Odisha
Bhubaneswar: Samajwadi Party president Akhilesh Yadav on Thursday met BJD supremo and former Odisha Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik at Naveen Niwas, praising his legacy while sharply criticising the BJP’s divisive politics.
Yadav lauded Patnaik’s decades-long contribution to Odisha’s development, highlighting his efforts to uplift the poor and improve living standards.
He noted that both Naveen and his father, Biju Patnaik, played pivotal roles in shaping the state’s progress.
Drawing parallels with his own father, Mulayam Singh Yadav, Akhilesh said the two families have historically worked together for the people, and that spirit of cooperation continues today.
Targeting the BJP, Yadav accused the party of resorting to communal tactics wherever it is weak and unable to fulfil promises.
He stressed that the Samajwadi Party does not indulge in divisive politics but seeks to unite people across communities.
Reassuring reporters about Naveen Patnaik’s health, Yadav said the BJD leader is “perfectly fine” and that they had a warm, detailed conversation about Odisha’s future and national politics.
