Bhawanipatna: BJP national president JP Nadda today came down heavily on the Odisha Government alleging that officers were running the state instead of elected representatives.

Addressing a public meeting here, Nadda said, "It is unclear whether there is any leader or officer who is actually running the state. BJD MLAs and MPs are disregarded, and the entire rule seems to be in the hands of bureaucrats. CM Naveen Patnaik has effectively delegated all responsibilities to these officers. The administration of the state has been entirely outsourced."

"Odisha remains backward and poor despite being ruled by the Naveen Patnaik-led BJD government during the last 23 years. Prime Minister Narendra Modi has provided ration to 3.5 crore people of Odisha," said Nadda.

He said eligible beneficiaries are not getting houses under PMAY scheme in Odisha. Such irregularities will be probed, and stringent action will be taken against those involved in the corruption.

Criticizing the CM, Nadda said while 11 crore people have availed the benefits of Ayushman Bharat Yojana, Patnaik was yet to implement it in Odisha, for which the people of the state were deprived of the benefits.

"Naveen Babu had announced the provision of cold storage in every block and irrigation facilities for 35 percent of the land. Has it been accomplished? Such a government does not deserve to remain in power," stated the BJP chief.

Regarding the Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana, Nadda raised concerns about corruption in Odisha. He mentioned that while 4 crore houses had been allocated under the scheme and 72 lakh houses sanctioned for Odisha, the process of completing 29 lakh houses had already begun.

Nadda expressed his dismay, saying, "Despite Prime Minister Modi providing 75 lakh houses, corruption prevails, deserving beneficiaries are ignored, and the ineligible ones receive the benefits. I urge the Central government to initiate an investigation to uncover the truth. Those who qualify should receive houses, while those engaged in corruption will face legal consequences."