Naveen Patnaik Criticizes Union Budget for Ignoring Odisha

Former Odisha Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik expressed disappointment over the Union Budget, citing it ignored Odisha’s long-pending demands. The budget, according to Patnaik, favored Andhra Pradesh and Bihar, allocating significant funds to these states while neglecting Odisha’s needs. This has sparked a political debate and raised concerns about the Centre’s impartiality towards different states.

Background

Naveen Patnaik, the leader of the Biju Janata Dal (BJD), has been a vocal advocate for Odisha’s special category status. Over the years, he has repeatedly highlighted the state’s unique challenges and demanded greater financial support from the Centre. However, the Union Budget presented by Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman did not address these demands, leading to Patnaik’s public criticism.

Special Category Status

One of the primary demands of Patnaik has been the grant of special category status to Odisha. This status would provide the state with additional financial aid and tax benefits, helping it address its socio-economic challenges. Despite the BJP’s promise in its manifesto, the demand remains unfulfilled, causing frustration among Odisha’s leaders and residents.

Comparison with Other States

Patnaik pointed out that while Odisha’s demands were ignored, states like Andhra Pradesh and Bihar received substantial allocations. Andhra Pradesh was granted Rs 15,000 crore for its new capital, Amaravati, and Bihar received Rs 26,000 crore for road connectivity projects. This disparity has fueled allegations of favoritism and raised questions about the Centre’s priorities.

Coal Royalty and Revenue Loss

Another significant concern raised by Patnaik is the rejection of Odisha’s request for a revision of coal royalty. Odisha, being a major coal-producing state, relies heavily on coal revenue. The current royalty rates have not been revised for years, leading to significant revenue losses for the state. Patnaik estimates that Odisha loses thousands of crores annually due to this issue.

Disaster Management

Odisha is prone to natural disasters, including floods and cyclones. Despite this, the state’s request for a special package for disaster management was not considered in the Union Budget. Patnaik highlighted that other states have received such packages, emphasizing the need for equitable treatment and support for disaster-prone regions like Odisha.

Polavaram Project Controversy

The allocation of funds for the Polavaram irrigation project in Andhra Pradesh without addressing Odisha’s grievances further added to the controversy. Patnaik criticized the Centre’s decision, stating that it showed a lack of impartiality and consideration for Odisha’s concerns. The Polavaram project has been a contentious issue, with Odisha raising environmental and rehabilitation concerns.

Tourism Development

While expressing disappointment over the budget’s overall treatment of Odisha, Patnaik did acknowledge the Centre’s assistance in developing tourist attractions in the state. This support, though appreciated, was seen as insufficient compared to the state’s broader needs and demands.

Political Reactions

Patnaik’s criticism of the Union Budget has sparked political reactions across party lines. Opposition parties have echoed his concerns, calling for a more balanced and fair allocation of resources. The BJP, on the other hand, has defended the budget, stating that it addresses the needs of various states based on merit and requirements.

Naveen Patnaik’s disappointment with the Union Budget highlights the ongoing struggle for equitable treatment and financial support for Odisha. The state’s demands for special status, revised coal royalties, and disaster management aid remain unaddressed, raising questions about the Centre’s commitment to addressing regional disparities. As political debates continue, the need for a balanced and inclusive approach to resource allocation becomes increasingly evident.

Aakhir Tak Editor-in-Chief

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