Biju Janata Dal (BJD) chief and former Odisha CM Naveen Patnaik expressed surprise over Union Minister Giriraj Singh’s suggestion to award him the Bharat Ratna, stating, “I have no idea why.”
Singh had previously suggested that both Nitish Kumar and Naveen Patnaik be honored with the prestigious award for their contributions to their states.
BJD leader Amar Patnaik, however, welcomed the suggestion. He however praised the recognition of Patnaik’s years of dedicated service to the people of Odisha.
The BJD leader stated, “It’s a welcome statement. Naveen Patnaik has been working for the people of Odisha for the last 24 years with devotion and sincerity. If this recognition comes, we will welcome it. Whether it comes or not, Naveen Patnaik is above all this.”
Giriraj Singh also highlighted Nitish Kumar’s key role in Bihar’s development. He stressed that both leaders deserved recognition such as the Bharat Ratna.
“Nitish Kumar has contributed significantly to the state’s development. Naveen Patnaik has also served Odisha with dedication for many years. Individuals like them deserve recognition with awards such as the Bharat Ratna,” Singh asserted.
Giriraj Singh also expressed confidence in Nitish Kumar’s ability to lead the National Democratic Alliance (NDA) in Bihar.
He noted, “The NDA government will be formed again under Nitish Kumar’s leadership. He has served as Chief Minister for many years. Today’s youth, now in their thirties, have not witnessed the jungle raj of Lalu Prasad Yadav’s era.”
Earlier on Tuesday, JD(U) leader and Union Minister Rajiv Ranjan Singh confirmed that the NDA would contest the 2025 Bihar Assembly elections under Nitish Kumar’s leadership.
While speaking with ANI, Ranjan Singh noted, “In the 2025 Bihar Assembly elections, the NDA will contest under Nitish Kumar’s leadership.”
The NDA performed strongly in the Lok Sabha elections in Bihar, with major allies including BJP, JD(U), LJP (Ram Vilas), and Hindustani Awam Morcha (Secular).
Nitish Kumar had previously dissolved the Mahagathbandhan government and rejoined the BJP ahead of the 2024 elections.
The BJP is the senior partner in Bihar’s NDA, holding 84 seats in the State Assembly, while JD(U) has 48.
The Election Commission has scheduled Bihar’s next Assembly elections for late 2025, covering all 243 seats.
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