BS Reporter / Kolkata/ Bhubaneswar May 29, 2009, 00:58 IST
The inclusion of only one member from Orissa in the Union council of ministers in the rank of minister of state has evoked strong resentment in the state with both Biju Janata Dal (BJD) and Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) criticising the Congress party.
Srikant Jena, the Congress MP from Balasore was the only face from Orissa in the Manmohan Singh’s expanded ministry which took oath today.
“As usual the Congress-led government at the Centre has neglected Orissa's interest and its representation in the council of ministers,” BJD supremo and the chief minister Naveen Patnaik told the media.
The expansion of ministry is a reflection of Congress' attitude towards the state, which should have more representation in the Union council of ministers, he added.
The BJP was also critical on the issue alleging that UPA is sidelining the interest of Orissa.
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