Sambalpur MP Dharmendra Pradhan responds to BJD 'Go Back' campaign
Sambalpur MP Dharmendra Pradhan rejected the BJD's 'Go Back' campaign on Saturday, stating he will continue to work for Odisha's people despite political opposition.
Sambalpur MP and former union minister Dharmendra Pradhan responded to the Biju Janata Dal’s (BJD) ‘Go Back Dharmendra Pradhan’ campaign on Saturday during a visit to the region. Speaking at an event in Rairakhol, Pradhan stated he would continue returning to the state to work for its residents, rejecting allegations that he is a “kulangaar” (disgrace). The visit marked Pradhan's first appearance in the constituency since his resignation as union education minister last month.
How did Dharmendra Pradhan respond to the BJD campaign?
Pradhan identified himself as a "halia" (farm worker) and stated that he would return regardless of requests to leave. He asserted that he would never compromise the dignity of Odisha, saying, “As long as I am alive, whether I do good work for Odisha or not, I will never bring disgrace to the state.”
Pradhan noted that his 12-year tenure as a union minister was served with the blessings of Maa Samaleswari and Lord Jagannath. BJD leader Rohit Pujari countered these remarks, stating that Pradhan had "defamed himself" rather than being defamed by others.
What infrastructure projects were announced for Rairakhol?
During the visit, Pradhan laid the foundation stone for the permanent campus of Kendriya Vidyalaya at Rairakhol and inaugurated its temporary building. He stated that the school's establishment resulted from the efforts of local intellectuals and residents.
Pradhan outlined a development agenda for the subdivision focusing on mobile network connectivity and all-weather roads for all villages. He confirmed that the tender process is complete for the construction of the Kerandi bridge, for which Rs 22 crore has been sanctioned.
What are the priorities for education and agriculture?
Regarding education, Pradhan stated the National Education Policy aims to provide multidisciplinary education to make students self-reliant and employable. He emphasized that a strong educational foundation is essential for the overall development of the region.
In the agricultural sector, Pradhan called for improved irrigation and the promotion of flower, fruit, and vegetable cultivation.
Following the event, Pradhan visited the Samaleswari Temple and paid floral tributes to Sant Kabi Bhima Bhoi. Panchayati Raj, Drinking Water and Rural Development Minister Rabi Narayan Naik and Rairakhol MLA Prasanna Acharya were also in attendance.
Why did Dharmendra Pradhan visit Rairakhol?
He visited to lay the foundation stone for the permanent campus of Kendriya Vidyalaya and inaugurate its temporary building.
What is the BJD's campaign against Dharmendra Pradhan called?
The campaign is called the 'Go Back Dharmendra Pradhan' campaign.
How much funding was sanctioned for the Kerandi bridge?
Rs 22 crore has been sanctioned for the construction of the Kerandi bridge.
When was Dharmendra Pradhan's last role as a union minister?
He resigned as the union education minister last month.
What are the primary infrastructure goals for the Rairakhol subdivision?
The priorities include providing all-weather roads and mobile network connectivity to all villages.
Debraj Meher
District Correspondent, Sambalpur
Debraj Meher reports on Sambalpur district's civic affairs, the Hirakud dam command area, and the region's handloom economy. He has been the Mirror's Sambalpur correspondent since 2021.
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