"Naveen Patnaik is reported to have stated that Modi is not acceptable at the national level...His statement is obviously because of a deal between BJD and Congress," BJP Odisha unit general secretary and spokesman Suresh Pujary alleged at a press conference here.
Claiming that the BJD chief was apprehensive about CBI including Odisha in its probe into coal scam, Pujary said, "Patnaik's remark about Modi is apparently aimed at keeping Congress in good humour."
Stating that BJP did not need a certificate from Patnaik on Modi's elevation as poll campaign committee chief, Pujary claimed that Patnaik must be worried about CBI which raided 15 places in the state in the coal scam.
On the chitfund scam, the BJD leader claimed that the much trumpeted 'Swabhiman' rally being held in Delhi to press for special category status for Odisha was aimed at diverting people's attention from the chitfund scandal.
Accusing the chief minister of not being sincere about special category state status, he said had Patnaik been sincere about the demand, his party would have involved all others and made the demand from a larger platform.
Pujary said, "All the 4.2 crore people of Odisha and not just BJD want special category status."
Slamming the BJD government for not including names of ministers, officials and leaders allegedly involved in the chitfund scam, he said the irregularities must be probed by a special investigation team under supervision of the Supreme Court as corruption took place in many states.
You’ve reached your limit of {{free_limit}} free articles this month.
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
Already subscribed? Log in
Subscribe to read the full story →
Smart Quarterly
₹900
3 Months
₹300/Month
Smart Essential
₹2,700
1 Year
₹225/Month
Super Saver
₹3,900
2 Years
₹162/Month
Renews automatically, cancel anytime
Here’s what’s included in our digital subscription plans
Exclusive premium stories online
Over 30 premium stories daily, handpicked by our editors


Complimentary Access to The New York Times
News, Games, Cooking, Audio, Wirecutter & The Athletic
Business Standard Epaper
Digital replica of our daily newspaper — with options to read, save, and share


Curated Newsletters
Insights on markets, finance, politics, tech, and more delivered to your inbox
Market Analysis & Investment Insights
In-depth market analysis & insights with access to The Smart Investor


Archives
Repository of articles and publications dating back to 1997
Ad-free Reading
Uninterrupted reading experience with no advertisements


Seamless Access Across All Devices
Access Business Standard across devices — mobile, tablet, or PC, via web or app
