BJD Marks 29th Foundation Day: Naveen Patnaik Reaffirms Party’s Role as Odisha’s Voice
On the occasion of the Biju Janata Dal’s (BJD) 29th Foundation Day, party president and former Odisha Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik delivered a spirited address at Shankha Bhavan, underscoring the party’s enduring bond with the people of Odisha.
Rejecting rumours of decline, Patnaik declared that the BJD is not about individual leaders but a people’s movement rooted in Odia pride and aspirations.
Reflecting on the party’s journey since 1997, Patnaik described the years of BJD governance from 2000 to 2024 as a “golden era” in Odisha’s development.
He highlighted achievements such as poverty reduction, women’s empowerment, farmer income growth, free healthcare through BSKY, and youth employment opportunities.
Turning his attention to the current BJP-led government, Patnaik criticised its performance under the “double engine” model, citing issues like fertiliser shortages for farmers, harassment of women under Mission Shakti, and repeated exam paper leaks.
He expressed concern over rising crimes against women and minors, questioning the state’s law and order situation.
Patnaik urged the youth to be more active on social media to counter misinformation campaigns, emphasising the party’s guiding principles of “service, struggle, and self-respect.” He concluded with a call for patience and collective effort, assuring that the BJD will continue to transform challenges into opportunities and remain the voice of Odisha for generations to come.
