BJD to hold Nuakhai fest in W Odisha

| | Bhubaneswar | in Bhubaneswar

The BJD on Monday announced to hold “Nuakhai Juhar Bhetghat” in 34 Assembly constituencies in western Odisha from September 20 to October 2. The MLAs will take lead of the festival in their respective Assembly constituencies, said Balangir MP Kalikesh Narayan Singh Deo. However, the ruling BJD’s Nuakhai programme has triggered sharp reactions from the BJP and the Congress.

“The BJD had forgotten to observe the Nuakhai festival during the last 18 years and has planned to observe it this year because elections are ahead. The ruling party’s base has weakened in the western Odisha and this festival plan is meant to hoodwink people only,” said BJP MLA Pradeep Purohit. Similarly, Leader of Opposition Narasingha Mishra of the Congress said, “It is good if a party holds a festival. But if it is like calling God at a time of crisis then it is not good.”