Odisha: Political Parties Condemn Burning of Biju Patnaik’s Statue

Bhubaneswar: Political leaders across Odisha have strongly condemned the burning of a statue of former Chief Minister Biju Patnaik in Patnagarh area of Balangir district, calling it an insult to the state’s pride and identity.

The opposition Biju Janata Dal (BJD) was the first to condemn the incident, labeling the act a “heinous crime” that insults Odisha’s legacy.

“The burning of Biju Babu’s statue is not only a heinous crime but also an unfortunate incident that has shaken the self-respect and identity of Odisha. Incidents insulting the glorious memory of Biju Babu have repeatedly been occurring under this government. The government’s silence is mysterious. This insult to late Biju Babu has deeply hurt the people of the state,” the BJD said.

The BJD also staged a massive protest condemning the desecration of the statue of the legendary leader Biju Patnaik.

Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi, representing the ruling BJP, condemned the incident and ordered swift police action to bring the culprits to justice.

The Chief Minister stated that the state government believes in respecting all the great sons of Odisha and taking all the steps to accord them due respect.

Condemning the incident, Congress MLA Sofia Firdous said, “I am deeply shocked and saddened by the shameful act of setting fire to the statue of Odisha’s legendary leader, Biju Patnaik, in Balangir”.

“This despicable incident, occurring just before his death anniversary, is not only an attack on a monument but a deep wound to Odia Asmita and the pride of every Odia. Biju Babu belongs to every Odia, transcending political parties and ideologies. I strongly condemn this shameful act and demand strict action against those responsible”, she said.