The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has stepped up its criticism of the Naveen Patnaik-led government in Odisha, targeting the alleged excessive influence of bureaucracy in the state’s administration. Ahead of the upcoming state elections, BJP leaders have accused the government of being run by a coterie of bureaucrats, raising concerns about unconstitutionality, nepotism, and a lack of transparency.
Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan expressed his concerns at a press conference, questioning Chief Minister Patnaik’s ability to lead the state and highlighting the potential threat to Odia identity and pride. Similarly, BJP national spokesperson Aparajita Sarangi condemned the situation, stating that the Indian Constitution clearly defines the separation of powers between the executive, legislative, and judiciary, and that the executive should not usurp power.
The BJP’s criticism stems from allegations that a former bureaucrat is attempting to gain political power through backdoor entry. Pradhan likened the situation to the ‘Sashikala syndrome,’ characterized by unconstitutionality, corruption, nepotism, and manipulation. Sarangi asserted that the self-respect and pride of Odisha are at stake due to the alleged hijacking of governance by a bureaucrat.
The BJP has called upon Chief Minister Patnaik to clarify the role of bureaucrats in the government and has demanded that he demonstrate his leadership and mandate from the people. The party has also expressed concerns about Patnaik’s limited public presence since the COVID-19 pandemic and his alleged failure to fulfill his responsibilities as Chief Minister.
The BJP’s top leadership, including Prime Minister Narendra Modi, BJP President J.P. Nadda, and External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar, are scheduled to visit Odisha in the coming days to campaign for the party. Pradhan stated that PM Modi, who enjoys widespread popularity in the state, will remain in Odisha during the hectic campaigning period.
