Jharsuguda: The residents of Jharsuguda believe in development and have always been with it. Hence, they have always supported Biju Janata Dal (BJD). The party also believes in the welfare and empowerment of women, including farmers and youths, the BJD supremo Naveen Patnaik said here today.

The party chief added saying in an electioneering speech to woo local voters, during his visit for the upcoming bypoll to the Jharsuguda Assembly seat, that the district possesses a special identity in the industry sector. With the continued support of the locals, Jharsuguda could one day become the number one industry-rich district in the country.

“I express my deepest tribute to your dearest leader and former minister Naba Kishore Das. He was an efficient MLA and legislator as well, who was popular across the State. Das is not with us today, but will always be remembered by Jharsuguda residents for his contributions to the district’s development,” the Chief Minister stated.

“Naba Das’s daughter Dipali has come forward to take charge of working for the development of Jharsuguda on his behalf. As you all know, she is a highly educated girl, who keeps a special interest in social service. I possess the firm belief that, in case given an opportunity to serve the people of Jharsuguda, she will efficiently do so,” the Chief Minister expressed.

“Winning or losing an election is always there. Hence, we all should maintain decency while carrying out any election campaign. We must not misbehave or scold anyone, especially women. The way Opposition parties behaved during the Padampur bypoll with a daughter who had lost her father is better known to you. It is a pity that they are doing the same with Dipali, which has hurt me,” Patnaik expressed.

“Dipali is a ‘daughter of the soil’. I believe that you will give her an opportunity to serve Jharsuguda. Do bless her in the upcoming bypoll and vote for ‘sankha’,” the BJD supremo appealed.