As the Mohan Majhi-led BJP government in Odisha nears its first anniversary, discussions over its performance have intensified. While the government boasts the fulfillment of over half its poll promises, critics argue that the achievements fall short of expectations and are largely self-congratulatory.
Claim of Fulfilling 11 Out of 21 Poll Promises
In a recent post on social media platform X, Chief Minister Mohan Majhi (@MohanMOdisha) claimed that the BJP government has successfully delivered on 11 of the 21 pledges made during its election campaign. A key highlight among these is the Subhadra Yojana, which provides ₹5,000 to eligible women in the state.
Despite this, the government has not revealed crucial details about how central grants were secured, the total expenditure, or the broader impact of the schemes. Critics argue that the government’s internal review process lacks independent oversight and fails to provide transparency.
Key Promises Still Unfulfilled
Several significant pledges remain unattended, such as:
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Filling vacant positions in state-run corporations.
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Expanding the state cabinet, a move expected to ensure smoother governance.
The delay is widely attributed to internal power struggles within the BJP’s Odisha unit. Party insiders have hinted at persistent factionalism that has hampered decision-making and weakened party unity.
Jagannath Temple’s Ratna Bhandar: Still Awaiting Action
One of the more sensitive and symbolic issues, the Ratna Bhandar (treasury) audit at the Jagannath Temple in Puri, remains unresolved. Despite public interest and prior commitments, the state government has yet to open the inventory account.
Similarly, the much-publicised four-door grievance redressal system, introduced with fanfare, has seen sporadic implementation and has been largely non-functional for months.
Anti-Corruption Drive Stalls
The BJP had promised a crackdown on corruption and had taken a strong stand against former BJD advisor V.K. Pandian. However, there have been no arrests or major announcements, leading to questions over the sincerity and effectiveness of the anti-corruption drive.
Opposition in Disarray
Despite mounting public dissatisfaction, the opposition remains weak. The BJD, Odisha’s principal opposition party, is mired in internal conflicts and has failed to effectively challenge the ruling BJP. Although it formed a shadow cabinet, its impact has been negligible.
The Congress, under a new state president, also appears disorganised and lacks the momentum to act as a serious counterforce in state politics.
Public Discontent over Spending Priorities
While the Subhadra Yojana has seen initial rollout, critics have slammed the government for spending crores on advertising the scheme. “Was it necessary to spend so much on publicity for a ₹5,000 assistance?” questioned one opposition voice.
Public expectations of transparency and genuine progress are growing. Many citizens believe the government must shift focus from media campaigns to ground-level delivery.
The Road Ahead
As the BJP government enters its second year in office, the people of Odisha are watching closely. The next four years will be a test of whether the administration can move beyond rhetoric and deliver meaningful development and governance reforms.