BJD leader invokes a popular Odia saying while questioning the government’s approach to issues concerning Odisha
GTNS | BHUBANESWAR | OCTOBER 2, 2026
As Odisha joined the nation in observing Gandhi Jayanti and Lal Bahadur Shastri Jayanti, political rhetoric in the state remained active, with BJD leader Sujata Rout Pandian taking a sharp swipe at the state government.
Using a popular Odia saying, Sujata remarked, “What virtue can one praise in a date palm tree? From the very roots, it is step after step,” a statement that she used to convey her criticism of the government’s functioning.
Her remarks come on a day when political leaders across Odisha were paying tribute to Mahatma Gandhi and Lal Bahadur Shastri and recalling their emphasis on truth, non-violence, simplicity, public service and commitment to the people.
At the Odisha Legislative Assembly premises, Governor Hari Babu Kambhampati, Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi, Speaker Surama Padhy, Deputy Chief Ministers K. V. Singh Deo and Pravati Parida, ministers and legislators paid floral tributes to Gandhi and Shastri. A Sarva Dharma prayer meeting and Ramdhun were also held.
The timing of Sujata’s remarks has therefore added another political dimension to the Gandhi Jayanti discourse, particularly around the question of how public administration should respond to issues raised by citizens and opposition parties.
Mineral rights remain a major political flashpoint
Sujata has recently been vocal on the MMDR Amendment Act, 2026, particularly over what she describes as the possible impact on Odisha’s interests in mineral resources and revenue.
Her position has been challenged by BJP leaders, who have argued that the amendments are intended to improve transparency, mineral utilisation, industrial development, employment and revenue generation. These remain competing political positions in the ongoing debate.
The MMDR issue has become one of the prominent points of confrontation between the BJD and the BJP in Odisha, with both sides presenting different interpretations of the legislation and its possible implications for the state.
Gandhi’s ideals add context to the political debate
Gandhi Jayanti is being observed this year as the 157th birth anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi, with the central themes of truth, non-violence, peace, cleanliness and service to society receiving renewed attention.
Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi, speaking at the state-level observance, highlighted Gandhi’s principles of Satyagraha, non-cooperation, cleanliness, Swadeshi and service to people at the last rung of society.
Against that backdrop, Sujata’s latest criticism has brought the focus back to the political contest over governance, accountability and Odisha’s interests.
For the BJD, such statements form part of its continuing criticism of the BJP government. For the ruling side, the government has maintained that its policies are directed towards development, welfare and the broader interests of Odisha.
The exchange is expected to keep the political debate alive as both parties continue to present contrasting positions on governance and state interests.