Bhubaneswar, June 15: Bhakta Charan Das, the President of the Odisha Pradesh Congress Committee (OPCC), has sharply criticized the Odisha government on the occasion of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) completing two years in power. He highlighted the distress faced by youth, women, and the elderly while the government remains preoccupied with celebrations.
Commenting on the events marking the BJP’s two-year anniversary, Das questioned the government’s performance. He stated that while the government celebrates its achievements, the reality on the ground tells a different story. He accused the state of forcing many workers to seek jobs outside Odisha, neglecting their plight.
Das pointed out that elderly citizens are struggling due to delays in pension payments. He also expressed concern over rising crimes against women and increasing social tensions. According to him, the administrative system in the state has weakened, leading to escalating problems at various levels.
He further claimed that the rights of the Panchayati Raj system have been curtailed, limiting the role of local representatives. Das alleged a lack of transparency in development projects, with unqualified individuals being appointed instead of deserving candidates, thereby compromising institutional quality.
Moreover, he noted that political interference in educational institutions has increased, affecting the autonomy of universities and colleges. He emphasized the need to maintain quality and fairness in the education system, which he believes is currently declining.
Speaking about the case of Chameli Ojha, the sarpanch of Tikiri Gram Panchayat in the Mahakalapada block of Kendrapara district, Das described the incident as a result of administrative negligence. He asserted that if a project was approved, timely implementation and fund disbursement are the administration’s responsibilities.
Das condemned the treatment of an elected female representative and insisted that officials must patiently listen to public grievances. He stressed that if a representative is voicing concerns, they should be treated with respect rather than creating a confrontational situation.
He also alleged that Ojha faced mistreatment, including the confiscation of her mobile phone. Das demanded strict action against all individuals involved in this incident. He insisted that if any official failed to fulfill their duties properly, they should also face consequences. Additionally, he called for a review of the cases against Ojha, advocating for their withdrawal and appropriate compensation.
Referencing the recent incident in West Bengal where 4,000 EVMs were burned, Das accused the government of attempting to undermine the democratic process. He raised serious questions regarding the state of the electoral system and democracy in the country. He noted that controversies surrounding EVMs are fostering distrust among the public, necessitating transparent investigations into such matters.
Das targeted the central government, claiming that democratic institutions are being weakened. He argued that the rights of various groups and communities are being compromised to maintain power. He reiterated that safeguarding the Constitution and constitutional values is the responsibility of all political parties, but these values are currently under pressure.
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