BJP's Amit Shah accuses Naveen Patnaik of undermining Odisha's culture

Bhubaneswar, May 21: Delivering a scathing critique of Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik, Union Home Minister Amit Shah lambasted the BJD leader during a public address in Sambalpur city on Tuesday. Shah accused Patnaik of imposing a bureaucratic regime, derogatorily labeled as 'Babu Shahi', onto Odisha, thereby infringing upon the state's cultural integrity and the pride of its people.

Promising a fresh leadership approach, Shah asserted that if the BJP secures victory in the state, they will appoint a young, diligent, and Odia 'Bhumiputra' as Chief Minister, embodying the aspirations of the populace.

Shah further criticized the BJD administration for what he deemed as the erosion of Odisha's heritage and cultural ethos, emphasizing that the incumbent government under Patnaik's leadership has neglected the state's unique identity.

Championing the cause of Odia culture and language, Shah rallied support for the BJP, highlighting the imperative of preserving the state's rich heritage and accelerating its developmental trajectory under indigenous leadership.

In a poignant plea to the electorate, Shah questioned whether the people of Odisha would prefer a leader from Tamil Nadu to govern them, urging voters to entrust the BJP with power to safeguard their cultural legacy and drive rapid progress.

Highlighting specific grievances, Shah accused the BJD government of commercializing Puri at the expense of its spiritual sanctity, alleging the neglect of temples and sacred sites. He lamented the closure of the four gates of the Jagannath Temple and asserted that attempts were made to obstruct the world-renowned Rath Yatra, reflecting what he portrayed as a disregard for religious sentiments and traditions.