BJP plans to picket 314 blocks

Bhubaneswar: The BJP has decided to picket the 314 block offices in the state alleging that the block offices have become the party offices of the BJD and that people are being denied the benefits of Central schemes.
Addressing the media here Thursday, Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) state general secretary Bhrugu Baxipatra said the party, after a series of meetings, has decided to gherao the block offices to press for fulfillment of their demands and to register its protest.
He accused the government of denying eligible beneficiaries the benefits of Central schemes at its block offices.
“Many Central schemes like the Swachh Bharat Scheme, Soubhagya Scheme or ration card distribution, which could benefit the public, have received a setback due to the unnecessary interference of block offices,” said Baxipatra.
He also added that the party has decided to reach out to the public in all the 314 blocks of the state from October 27 to 30, by holding demonstrations.
“In the last 19 years, the government was found to have been involved in many scams in various blocks. The Odisha government has destroyed the pillars of democratic institutions in all the blocks. They have converted public offices into party offices,” he said.
The BJP also said that it has published leaflets and composed special songs meant for the event to reach out to more people.
“While many bona fide applicants in block offices are denied the benefits of Central schemes, many people recommended by BJD workers are given priority. We have decided to raise our voice against this and expose the BJD government,” he said.
Commenting on BJP’s protest, BJD spokesperson PK Deb said as the elections are approaching, they are trying hard to remain in limelight. “However, it won’t have any impact on people as they have full faith and trust on Naveen Patnaik government.”