Bhubaneswar, Dec 26: Former Chief Minister and leader of the Biju Janata Dal (BJD), Naveen Patnaik today urged the party’s workers to actively counter the false narratives spread by the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) on social media platforms.
Speaking at the BJD's 28th Foundation Day celebrations, Patnaik admitted that the party’s failure to effectively challenge the BJP’s disinformation campaign contributed to its poor performance in the 2024 general elections.
“Our biggest mistake was not adequately countering their lies and negative propaganda on social media. We were unable to address their false narratives, and as a result, we suffered,” Patnaik said.
“However, the people have now realized that the BJP has come to power by spreading lies. I urge all BJD workers to respond decisively to these falsehoods and stay active on social media,” he said.
The leader of opposition also criticized the BJP for securing power through misleading promises, even though the party received fewer votes than the BJD in the 2024 elections.
Addressing rumors about the future of the BJD, Patnaik recalled how similar claims were made when the party was founded in 1997.
“Back then, many said BJD had no future, and now, some detractors are repeating the same. I firmly believe that BJD has a bright future ahead,” he asserted.
“The BJD and its symbol, the Conch, are deeply connected to the people of Odisha. We have always fought for the rights of Odisha, and this fight will continue for the next 100 years. Our mission to secure justice for the people of Odisha against the central government’s injustices remains unwavering,” the BJD supremo said.
Patnaik also criticised the BJP government for the rising cost of living in Odisha, particularly the sharp increase in food prices.
“In the last six months, the BJP government’s most significant contribution to the people of Odisha has been inflation. The prices of dal, rice, vegetables, and edible oil have skyrocketed, causing immense hardship for families. Farmers are suffering due to the poor paddy procurement process, and the women under Mission Shakti are in despair. When will the state government wake up to these issues?” he demanded.
