In a disturbing incident that has sparked outrage across Odisha, the statue of legendary leader Biju Patnaik was vandalised in Patnagarh, Bolangir district on Tuesday.
Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi has strongly condemned the act, expressing deep sorrow and labelling it as a despicable display of disrespect toward a revered figure. Biju Patnaik, fondly known as Biju Babu, is celebrated for his monumental contributions to Odisha’s development and India’s freedom struggle.
The incident, which occurred late last night, has left the local community in shock. The statue, a symbol of pride for the people of Patnagarh, was found defaced, prompting immediate action from the authorities.
Chief Minister Majhi, in a statement issued from his office, described the perpetrator as someone with a “depraved and sick mentality.” He assured the public that strict measures would be taken to bring those responsible to justice.
“Such an act is not just an attack on a statue but an insult to the legacy of Biju Babu and the values he stood for,” Majhi said. He has directed the police to conduct a thorough investigation and leave no stone unturned in identifying any underlying conspiracy behind the vandalism. As a result of swift police action, one suspect has already been arrested, and further inquiries are underway to determine if others were involved.
The Chief Minister reiterated the state government’s commitment to honouring Odisha’s icons, emphasizing that disrespect toward figures like Biju Patnaik would not be tolerated. He highlighted recent efforts to celebrate Patnaik’s legacy, including the grand observance of his birth anniversary on March 5, where Majhi himself participated in commemorative events. He also noted that the state is preparing to observe Patnaik’s death anniversary on April 17 with due reverence.
The vandalism has drawn widespread condemnation from political leaders, community members, and citizens across Odisha. Local residents gathered near the site, expressing their anger and demanding harsh punishment for those responsible. Social media platforms, including X, have been abuzz with posts condemning the act, with many calling it an attempt to tarnish Odisha’s cultural and historical pride.
As investigations continue, the incident has raised questions about the security of public monuments and the need for stricter measures to protect them. The state government has promised to repair the damaged statue and enhance vigilance to prevent such occurrences in the future.
Chief Minister Majhi concluded his statement by reaffirming his admiration for Biju Patnaik, stating, “Biju Babu’s contributions to Odisha and India are unparalleled. We will ensure his legacy remains untarnished, and those who dare to disrespect it will face the full force of the law.”
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