Bhubaneswar: BJD supremo Naveen Patnaik voiced strong concerns over the proposed Delimitation Bill, urging the State’s political rights to remain intact. In a formal letter addressed to Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi on Wednesday, Patnaik emphasized that any reduction in political rights would undermine the aspirations of Odisha and its people.
He appealed to the Chief Minister to take immediate action, stressing the importance of preserving the state’s political influence in the national legislature.
The Chief Minister’s letter pointed out the significant risks posed by the bill, which seeks to alter the composition of the Lok Sabha. While Odisha’s representation would technically rise from 21 to 29 MPs, its proportion in the House would decrease from 3.9% to 3.4%. This shift, Patnaik argued, would reduce the state’s political voice by as much as 15%, making Odisha one of the largest losers in the proposed exercise.
Patnaik has called for a special session of the Odisha Legislative Assembly to be convened within the next 48 hours to pass a resolution ensuring that no political rights of the state are taken away. “Future generations will not forgive us if we remain silent while Odisha’s political significance is reduced,” he wrote.
Patnaik also appealed to the people of Odisha and the Biju Janata Dal (BJD) to stand united in opposing any potential loss of political representation. “BJD will stand with you on this issue, as it directly affects the future of our beloved state and motherland Odisha,” he stated.
Alongside his political plea, Patnaik also reiterated Odisha’s commitment to women’s empowerment. He highlighted the state’s proactive approach, referencing Odisha’s implementation of 50% reservation for women in Panchayati Raj Institutions. The Biju Janata Dal has long been a vocal supporter of women’s representation in legislative bodies, with Patnaik stressing the need for continued support for national legislation aimed at empowering women.
As the political landscape of Odisha faces critical changes, Patnaik’s appeal for safeguarding the state’s political rights and gender equality remains a key point of focus for both state leaders and the public.
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