Odisha CM accuses Centre of not fulfilling just demands

Odisha Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik Friday accused the union government of not granting the state's legitimate rights under the federal structure.

"Odisha is yet to receive its legitimate rights under the federal structure. The state has always been neglected by centre. There should not be any political consideration while allocating national resources," the chief minister and BJD president said during the celebrations of the 17th foundation anniversary of the party here.

He said the party would continue its fight for the rights of four crore people in Odisha.

"The success of the BJD has caused tension among the national parties. They are demoralised. The political parties were never with the people of Odisha and they will not be in future. But the BJD has always given importance to the interest of people, ignoring the party's interest," Patnaik said.

Accusing the opposition parties of trying to tarnish the image of the BJD, he said the party will remain in the hearts of millions of people in the state and will strive for a better Odisha in the coming days.

Highlighting several welfare programmes initiated by his government in the past 15 years, he said his work in the agriculture sector and successful disaster management has brought national and international accolades. During the meeting, several BJD leaders including a minister demanded the Bharat Ratna for Biju Patnaik, the former chief minister of Odisha, for his immense contribution to national growth and during the freedom struggle.

"Biju Patnaik should get Bharat Ratna for his contribution during freedom struggle and after Independence. There should not be any political consideration," said Tourism Minister Ashok Panda.