Bhubaneswar: Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi on Monday dismissed BJD and Congress’ claims of “vote chori,” manipulation, and booth rigging, stating that the BJP achieved a “historic” victory in the Nuapada by-poll thanks to the diligent efforts of party workers, leader unity, and a sound strategy. During a meeting, he thanked both party workers and leaders for their essential contribution to ensuring the success of BJP candidate Jay Dholakia by over 83,000 votes. “We appreciate the people of Nuapada. I will visit the district soon to express my thanks in person,” he remarked.
Reflecting on previous years when the BJP lacked polling booth agents in many regions, the Chief Minister stated, “We learned from our losses and assessed our errors. That is why the BJP is succeeding today.” He accused the opposition of disseminating false information, stating, “Both BJD and Congress attacked us with fabrications, fearing defeat. They resorted to abusive terms such as ‘vote chori’ and ‘beiman’ (traitor). However, their lies failed, and the people of Nuapada responded appropriately.” He asserted that an operation named ‘Operation Sindoor’ was carried out in Nuapada, which he claimed yielded substantial benefits. Majhi stated that the by-poll results had “altered the political landscape” of Odisha.
“Now, Congress alleges it lost due to a ‘Bibhishan’ (one who aids the enemy) and intends to take action against him. If they do this, the party — which comprises 70 percent ‘Bibhishan’ — will be entirely ruined,” he commented. The Chief Minister noted that BJP workers, leaders, MLAs, MPs, and ministers collaborated throughout the campaign. “The ministers, MLAs, and MPs assigned to the area will now compile a list of local issues. All concerns will be addressed. I have previously stated that I bear the responsibility for Nuapada’s development,” he continued. Majhi mentioned that industrial progress would also be pursued in the district alongside irrigation projects.
“The State government is drafting a plan, and newly elected MLA Jay Dholakia will strive to meet the hopes and aspirations of the people,” he added. Emphasizing that elections are akin to warfare requiring a strategic approach, the Chief Minister noted that a plan was devised and strategies implemented to secure the by-poll victory. BJP State president Manmohan Samal remarked that the by-poll represented a significant challenge for the party. “The Chief Minister’s two major roadshows were pivotal. Given that Nuapada borders Chhattisgarh, the BJP workers from that State also played an active and crucial role,” he stated, expressing thanks to Chhattisgarh Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai, the Deputy Chief Minister, ministers, and BJP leaders.
Odisha BJP in-charge Vijay Pal Singh Tomar expressed his gratitude to all workers who dedicated themselves during the by-election to help secure the party’s victory. The meeting included ministers Prithiviraj Harichandan, Sampad Swain, Gokulanand Mallick, Pradeep Bal Samanta, government chief whip Saroj Pradhan, Rajya Sabha member Sujit Kumar, Kalahandi MP Malvika Devi, several MLAs, and others.