Odisha CM Naveen Patnaik demands financial autonomy

The Biju Janata Dal (BJD), the ruling party in Odisha, on Wednesday, observed its 21st Foundation Day in the shadow of anti-incumbency against the Naveen Patnaik government.

Patnaik, who has been alleging "central apathy" for a long time, demanded "financial autonomy" for Odisha, saying that the state is "no more" in need of special category status or Central grants.

"Give us financial autonomy. We will no more need a special category status or Central grant. We will be able to develop and prosper with our own funds," Patnaik said, addressing party workers in Bhubaneswar at the commemoration of the 21st Foundation Day of the party. He accused the Modi government of "neglecting" Odisha and said the Centre is "extracting huge benefits" from Odisha but giving "nothing in return".

Patnaik's attack on the Centre came close on the heels of Prime Minister Narendra Modi criticising his government, calling it the "demon of corruption", owing to chit fund scams and PC (percentage commission) gripping the state. The PM said lack of political willpower and rampant corruption are holding back Odisha to attain the fruits of development despite persistent assistance from the Centre.

"Who is feeding and patronising the demon of corruption?" the PM had said in an oblique reference to Patnaik's government.

It could be noted that there are allegations of a series of scams against the Odisha state government. Patnaik also faces allegations of ruling the state through a coterie of trusted bureaucrats.