JAJPUR (Orissa today) Mar 5: BJD Leaders on Wednesday paid homage to Bijayananda Patnaik, the former Chief Minister of Odisha, fondly remembered as Biju Babu, on his 109th birth anniversary at Jajpur Town. The leaders lauded Biju Patnaik’s contributions to Odisha’s development and his unwavering commitment to democracy. BJD Leaders on Wednesday strongly criticised the government’s decision to dissociate Panchayati Raj Day from his father Biju Patnaik’s birth anniversary, stating that “you cannot take away the love and affection that people of Odisha have for Biju Babu.” “The name Biju Babu fills every Odia’s heart with pride and courage,” Leaders said, “a tall man with a large heart filled with courage and compassion” who served as “the pillar of faith for four and a half crore people of Odisha.” The BJD Leaders pointed out that March 5 has been celebrated as Panchayati Raj Diwas in Odisha since 1993. “For more than 30 years, the state has celebrated this day. What is the reason for such a decision now?” Leaders questioned, pointing out the government decision to celebrate Panchayati Raj Diwas on April 24, aligning with the national calendar. The BJD leaders also highlighted recent incidents of vandalism targeting Biju’s statues, alleging the government’s inaction against perpetrators. He recalled the BJP government’s earlier attempt to rename the Biju sports awards, which was withdrawn following public protests.
BJD Leaders pays floral tribute to former chief minister Biju Patnaik on his birth anniversary
