CM Naveen Patnaik is set to kick off his election campaign from his home constituency Hinjili in Ganjam district on Wednesday. Patnaik has held the seat for five consecutive terms since 2000.
Ahead of hitting the campaign trail, the CM called on people to support the ‘Jodi Sankha’ (double conch) symbol in the upcoming elections, countering the BJP’s ‘double-engine government’ slogan. This campaign gains significance as the ruling BJD aims to tackle anti-incumbency sentiments after being in power for an extended period. Additionally, it aims to prevent potential split voting, buoyed by Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s popularity.
In a BJD-released video, Patnaik is seen holding two conches, the party’s symbol, urging voters to choose the ‘double conch’ in the elections. He emphasized, “This time, vote for double conch – one for MLA and one for MP.”
The CM’s campaign precedes Union Home Minister Amit Shah’s planned rally in Sonepur under the Balangir Lok Sabha seat. Patnaik is scheduled to address public meetings in Hinjili and Sheragada, with further campaigning in Rayagada district.
Sources within the BJD reveal that VK Pandian, the 5T chairman, will accompany Patnaik during the campaign. The CM is contesting from two Assembly seats – Hinjili and Kantabanji in Balangir district.
Odisha will witness simultaneous Lok Sabha and Assembly elections across four phases from May 13 to June 1. The first phase on May 13 includes polling in four Lok Sabha seats and 28 Assembly segments.
