Overview
- Naveen Patnaik launched the BJD’s Nuapada campaign in Komna on November 3, alleging the BJP formed government with “stolen votes” and “stole” a candidate.
- He accused the state government of stalled development, deteriorating law and order, rising crimes against women, and failing to deliver promises such as 300 free electricity units, Rs 3,500 pensions, jobs per panchayat, fertilizer supply, and Mission Shakti dues.
- Deputy Chief Minister Pravati Parida rebutted the charges, calling BJD’s 24-year record a betrayal and urging voters to back the BJP’s 500-day administration and the Subhadra scheme.
- Kalpana Dholakia defended her son Jay’s move to the BJP as a bid to continue Nuapada’s development, denied any monetary deal, and objected to the BJD using the late MLA’s photo and name; Jay also alleged the BJD neglected his father during his illness.
- BJD leaders rejected the neglect claims, saying Patnaik regularly checked on Rajendra Dholakia and arranged transport and rituals, as parties intensify outreach before the November 11 by-election.