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Bhubaneswar: Former Chief Minister of Odisha, Naveen Patnaik, voiced his disappointment on Tuesday over the continued neglect of Odisha in the Union Budget, despite the state’s considerable contributions to the nation.
Reacting to the Union Budget 2024 presented by Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman in Parliament today, Patnaik remarked that the NDA government has ruled for over a decade, with each budget highlighting Eastern states including Odisha.
“There has been nothing substantial for Odisha over the years, and this budget has also been a disappointment for us,” Patnaik said, adding, “However, we shall wait for the details.”
The BJD leader pointed out that the BJP’s manifesto promised special category status for Odisha, a commitment unfulfilled, while substantial funds have been allocated to Andhra Pradesh and Bihar.
Moreover, he mentioned the longstanding request for a coal royalty revision has been denied by the central government, a decision that will cost the state a significant loss in revenue annually, according to the ex-Chief Minister.
Patnaik also highlighted that the BJP made numerous big promises to Odisha’s populace during the election campaign, particularly in sectors like agriculture, MSMEs, and industry.
“Yet, this budget fails to acknowledge any fulfilled promises. It’s a total disregard for Odisha and its citizens,” he commented.
He further noted, “Odisha is prone to several natural calamities annually, including floods. We had sought a special disaster management package.”
Despite other states’ similar appeals being granted for flood management, Odisha’s legitimate request for disaster management remains ignored, lamented the BJD chief.
“On both accounts, whether it’s the special package or coal royalty revision, Odisha’s needs have been neglected,” Patnaik concluded.
Patnaik also mentioned that the pressing issues for the general populace today are inflation and unemployment, yet this budget lacks significant measures to tackle these critical problems.
He commented, “Our struggle for justice regarding the Polavaram issue persists. The continuous allocation of funds for Polavaram, while neglecting Odisha’s legitimate concerns, demonstrates partiality against our state.”
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