BJD Slams Chouhan Over Housing Claims, Alleges ‘Double Betrayal’ in Odisha
Bhubaneswar: The political battle between the ruling BJP and the opposition Biju Janata Dal (BJD) intensified on Saturday after BJD leaders strongly criticised Union Rural Development Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan over his remarks on housing schemes in Odisha.
The party termed the allegations against the previous BJD government as “baseless” and accused the BJP of attempting to claim credit for work initiated under the former administration.
Addressing the media, senior BJD leaders asserted that more than 40 lakh pucca houses were constructed in Odisha between 2014-15 and 2023-24 through various welfare initiatives, including PMAY, Biju Pucca Ghar Yojana, Indira Awas Yojana, and Nirman Shramik Pucca Ghar Yojana.
They maintained that the state’s housing achievements were the result of sustained efforts undertaken during the BJD regime.
The party also contended that several beneficiaries currently receiving houses were identified and approved during the previous government’s tenure.
Rejecting allegations of irregularities in the beneficiary selection process, BJD leaders said the selections were conducted transparently through Gram Sabha recommendations and established procedures.
Former minister Pradeep Amat questioned the BJP government’s claims regarding the distribution of housing benefits and alleged that political considerations were influencing the identification of beneficiaries.
He called for fairness and transparency in the implementation of housing schemes across the state.
Meanwhile, BJD media coordinator Dr Lenin Mohanty coined the phrase “Double Betrayal,” arguing that the BJP should focus on fulfilling its electoral promises instead of criticising the previous government.
The party further raised concerns over inflation, law and order issues, and women’s safety, alleging shortcomings in the BJP’s governance.
Demanding an impartial inquiry into alleged irregularities in the current housing scheme implementation, the BJD urged the government to ensure that eligible poor families receive housing benefits without political discrimination.
The latest exchange highlights the continuing tussle between the BJD and BJP over welfare delivery and credit for Odisha’s rural housing achievements.
