Bhubaneswar (Odisha) [India]: Prime Minister Narendra Modi, addressing BJP workers in Bhubaneswar, launched a sharp critique of the Congress, accusing the party of treating power as its “birthright” and misleading citizens. He claimed that Congress has been unable to gain power at the Centre for the past decade, leading them to plot against the nation out of frustration.
Key Highlights of PM Modi’s Speech:
On Congress and Opposition Politics
PM Modi accused Congress of rejecting democratic norms and misleading the public:
“Those who consider power as their birthright have not had power at the Centre for the last decade. They are angry with the people for blessing someone else from the very first day. This anger has led them to plot against the country and mislead citizens.”
The Prime Minister also criticized the opposition for running what he called a “shop of lies and rumors” for decades and urged BJP workers to expose these falsehoods.
‘Chowkidar’ Remark and Opposition Campaigns
Referring to the opposition’s earlier “Chowkidar Chor Hai” slogan, PM Modi pointed out its irrelevance in the current discourse:
“The Chowkidar, who was a thief for them in 2019, became honest by 2024. Their only aim is to somehow capture power by misleading the people of the country.”
He accused opposition parties of lying to both the public and their workers to maintain relevance.
BJP’s Growing Success in Odisha
PM Modi credited the BJP’s historic win in Odisha to the central government’s focus on the state’s development and the connection it has maintained with its people:
“The BJP’s work at the Centre for Odisha and the affinity it showed towards its people reached every household, leading to the party’s significant win in the state elections.”
Recent Electoral Victories
PM Modi highlighted the BJP’s recent successes in Maharashtra, Haryana, and by-elections across the nation, noting that these results have instilled greater trust among citizens:
“The results are proof of the BJP’s speciality and the potential of its party workers. I can feel the happiness and confidence in your eyes.”
PM Modi’s Odisha Visit
The Prime Minister is on a three-day visit to Odisha and is set to attend the All India Conference of Director Generals/Inspector Generals of Police 2024, which begins on November 30 in Bhubaneswar.