Former MP Sidhant Mohapatra Criticizes BJD’s Treatment of Odia Language

Bhubaneswar: Former Member of Parliament Sidhant Mohapatra, who recently joined the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), has launched a scathing attack on Odisha’s ruling Biju Janata Dal (BJD), accusing it of neglecting the Odia language and undermining the state’s cultural heritage. Mohapatra, addressing a press meet in Bhubaneswar, highlighted several grievances against the BJD government, including what he perceives as Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik’s inadequate efforts to promote the Odia language.

Mohapatra, now a BJP candidate for the upcoming Assembly elections from Digapahandi in Ganjam district, criticized the Chief Minister for allegedly using ‘Roman English’ while speaking in Odia. He emphasized that the treatment of the Odia language and culture by the BJD government is condemnable, and expressed disappointment over Patnaik’s absence at the Utakala Dibasa celebration.

Furthermore, Mohapatra criticized the organization of the recent World Odia Language Conference by the state government, labeling the event as “pathetic and shocking.” He claimed that due to the government’s callous approach, there was utter mismanagement during the conference, with names of eminent personalities mispronounced and mismentioned. Mohapatra also questioned the decision to appoint a non-Odia as the coordinator for the event, asserting that such actions undermine the integrity of Odia language promotion efforts.

Terming the claims of the BJD government as hollow, Mohapatra stressed the need for concrete steps to promote the Odia language, which he believes is the responsibility of the Odisha government. He assured that the BJP will advocate for the protection and enhancement of the Odia language and its cultural pride, promising to elevate it to new heights if the party comes to power.

Mohapatra’s remarks underscore the growing discontent regarding the treatment of the Odia language and culture in Odisha’s political landscape. As the state gears up for the upcoming elections, the issue of language preservation and cultural heritage preservation is likely to remain a prominent topic of discussion and debate.