TNI Bureau: The Biju Janata Dal (BJD) on Friday criticised the state BJP government over its stand on granting Special Category Status to Odisha, alleging that the government has remained silent despite earlier promises.

Addressing a press conference at Shankha Bhavan, Rajya Sabha MP and BJD National Spokesperson Sasmit Patra said the demand for Special Category Status has long been a key issue for Odisha. He said that under the leadership of former Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik, the state government had consistently raised the demand before the Centre. In 2012, the BJD had organised a large public rally at Red Fort grounds in New Delhi to press for the demand, highlighting Odisha’s vulnerability to natural disasters and the need for additional support for infrastructure development, tribal welfare, and economic growth.

Dr. Patra alleged that the Bharatiya Janata Party had promised in its 2014 election manifesto to demand Special Category Status for Odisha and continue efforts until it was achieved. However, he said that even after nearly two years in power in the state, the BJP government has not taken any visible steps on the issue.

He said that in reply to an unstarred question raised by him in the Rajya Sabha, the Union Minister of State for Finance clarified that there is no proposal under consideration to grant Special Category Status to Odisha. He said the state government must clearly state its position in the interest of the people.

Dr. Patra also urged Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi to ensure that the State Cabinet passes a resolution demanding Special Category Status during its meeting ahead of the Budget Session. He alleged that failure to do so would indicate that the double-engine government has failed to fulfil its promise made in 2014.

BJD spokesperson Dr. Lenin Mohanty gave the introductory remarks at the press conference, while Media Coordinator Dr. Priyabrata Majhi was also present.