Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday paid homage to Bijayananda Patnaik, the former Chief Minister of Odisha, fondly remembered as Biju Babu, on his 109th birth anniversary. Recognizing his legacy, the Prime Minister lauded Biju Patnaik’s contributions to Odisha’s development and his unwavering commitment to democracy.
In a post on X, PM Modi said, “Remembering Biju Babu on his birth anniversary. We fondly recall his contribution towards Odisha’s development and empowering people. He was also staunchly committed to democratic ideals, strongly opposing the Emergency.”
Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi also paid tribute, acknowledging Patnaik’s pivotal role in shaping the state’s progress. “Humble tributes to the former Chief Minister of Odisha, the legendary Biju Patnaik, on his birth anniversary. His efforts in empowering people and shaping the state’s development remain an inspiration. He will always be remembered as a great politician, freedom fighter, and nationalist leader,” Majhi wrote on X.
The Chief Minister further honored the leader by garlanding his statue on the Assembly premises. Speaking to reporters, Majhi described Biju Patnaik as a visionary leader whose policies transformed Odisha. “From increasing the number of districts from 13 to 30 for better administration to formulating the state’s industrial policy and developing Paradip Port, his contributions are immense. The new government will work towards realizing his vision for Odisha’s growth, and we will celebrate his birth anniversary with full enthusiasm,” he stated.
Leader of Opposition Naveen Patnaik, Biju Patnaik’s son, also paid his respects, recalling his father’s efforts in strengthening the Panchayati Raj system and championing women’s empowerment. “I pay my tributes to the great leader, former Chief Minister, and legendary Biju Patnaik. His bravery and contributions in making Odisha a leading state continue to inspire us. We remain committed to safeguarding the interests and self-esteem of the people of Odisha,” Naveen Patnaik wrote on X.
For the past three decades, March 5 has been observed as Panchayati Raj Diwas in recognition of Biju Patnaik’s pioneering role in strengthening the system in Odisha. However, the BJP-led Odisha government recently decided to shift the observance of Panchayati Raj Diwas from March 5 to April 24, a move that has sparked political controversy. Adding to the dispute, the state government has also scrapped the official holiday on Biju Patnaik’s birth anniversary, drawing sharp reactions from opposition leaders and supporters of the late leader’s legacy.
As Odisha remembers one of its most celebrated leaders, tributes continue to pour in from across the political spectrum, reflecting Biju Patnaik’s enduring impact on the state and the nation.
-IANS