In a sharp and spirited response, Union Minister Dharmendra Pradhan has slammed BJD chief and Leader of Opposition Naveen Patnaik for what he called “baseless and laughable” remarks on the proposed increase in Odisha’s Lok Sabha seats from 21 to 32.
Taking to X, Pradhan expressed astonishment at Patnaik’s reaction to a development that promises to nearly double Odisha’s voice in Parliament. “Why is the Opposition leader scared and surprised by this positive prospect for Odisha?” he asked, accusing Patnaik’s statement of sowing confusion among the people of the state.
Pradhan reminded everyone of the Modi government’s landmark **Nari Shakti Vandan Adhiniyam**, which guarantees 33% reservation for women in Parliament and State Assemblies. He pointed out that during the discussion on the 131st Constitutional Amendment Bill in Parliament on April 16-17, Union Home Minister Amit Shah had categorically stated that every state—including Odisha—would see its representation rise by nearly 50%.
“This means Odisha’s Lok Sabha seats will jump from 21 to 32, giving at least 11 women from the state the chance to become first-time MPs and represent Odisha on the national stage,” Pradhan said.
He also highlighted the numbers: Odisha’s current share in the Lok Sabha stands at 3.87%. After the increase, it will edge up to 3.91%—a small but significant step that will strengthen the state’s influence at the national level.
The senior BJP leader urged Patnaik to stop spreading “false propaganda” and instead focus on fact-based discourse. “From a person like Naveen Babu, we expect statements rooted in truth. If he stops misleading the public and presents facts truthfully, it will truly serve the interests of Odisha,” Pradhan added.
The minister’s strong rebuttal has sparked fresh debate in Odisha’s political circles just as the delimitation exercise gains momentum.
