As the Lok Sabha elections approach their final phase, Prime Minister Narendra Modi remains optimistic about his party, the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), retaining power at the Centre and securing a win in Odisha, where state assembly elections are being held concurrently. In a recent interview with ANI, PM Modi discussed the BJP’s decision to forgo an alliance with Naveen Patnaik’s Biju Janata Dal (BJD) despite their positive relationship, stating that his priority is the welfare of Odisha.
PM Modi explained that maintaining good relations with leaders from various political parties is important in a democracy. However, he emphasized that his commitment to Odisha’s future takes precedence over personal relationships. “We have good relations with the leaders of all political parties in India, and in a democracy, we do not harbor enmity. But I chose to focus on the bright future of Odisha. If I have to sacrifice personal relations for that, I will,” he said. He assured that after the elections, he would make it clear that he holds no enmity towards anyone.
Criticizing the current BJD government in Odisha, led by Naveen Patnaik, PM Modi claimed that a small group has taken control of the state’s entire system, hindering progress for the past 25 years. Patnaik, who has been in power since 2000, is seeking a record sixth term. “Odisha has immense natural resources, yet it remains one of the states with significant poverty. The current government is responsible for this. The people of Odisha deserve better, and they should reclaim their identity,” PM Modi asserted.
He confidently predicted a change in government, stating that on June 10, a BJP Chief Minister would be sworn in, signaling a new era for Odisha.
Regarding the BJP’s performance in West Bengal, PM Modi expressed strong confidence, declaring that the state would be the party’s best-performing region in the 2024 Lok Sabha elections. He noted the significant gains made in the previous elections, where the BJP increased its seats from three to 18, closely trailing the Trinamool Congress (TMC). “The public support for BJP is overwhelming, causing panic within the TMC government. Despite the violence and arrests of BJP workers, the people of Bengal are voting in large numbers,” he said.
In conclusion, PM Modi highlighted the anticipated success of the BJP in both Odisha and West Bengal, reflecting his optimism for the party’s future as the elections near their end.