In a move that has sparked controversy, the BJP-led Odisha government has announced that it will no longer observe Panchayati Raj Day on March 5, the birthday of legendary leader Biju Patnaik, and will instead celebrate the day as Biju Patnaik’s birth anniversary. The new Panchayati Raj Day will be observed on April 24, in line with the national date for the celebration. This shift also includes the cancellation of the holiday on March 5, which had traditionally marked both events for decades.

Government’s Decision on Panchayati Raj Day

The decision was made following a statement from the Chief Minister’s Office (CMO), which clarified that March 5 would be solely recognized for Biju Patnaik's birth anniversary, a day dedicated to commemorating the life and legacy of the former Odisha Chief Minister. The shift in dates aims to align Odisha’s observance with the national celebration of Panchayati Raj Day, which is celebrated on April 24. This day is significant for honoring the panchayat representatives across India with awards such as the Rashtriya Gaurav Gram Sabha Award and others.

The Odisha government stated that this change was made to overcome the inconsistencies between the national and state-level observance of Panchayati Raj Day. Henceforth, April 24 will be the official date for Odisha’s Panchayati Raj Divas, aligning with the national observance of the day. Additionally, April 24 will also mark Public Service Day in the state.

Opposition from BJD

The decision has been met with strong opposition from the Biju Janata Dal (BJD), which was quick to criticize the state government. BJD leader Debi Prasad Mishra expressed disappointment, stating that the BJP government’s move reflects disrespect towards the legacy of Biju Patnaik, who is widely regarded as the pioneer of the Panchayati Raj movement in India. Mishra emphasized that Biju Patnaik had played a pivotal role in establishing the panchayati raj system and had been instrumental in ensuring 30% reservation for women in the system.

Mishra added that this was a disheartening move, as Panchayati Raj Day had been celebrated on Biju Patnaik's birthday since the early 1990s, irrespective of which party was in power in Odisha. He pointed out that previous Congress-led governments had also celebrated March 5 as Panchayati Raj Divas, honoring Patnaik’s contributions to democratizing governance at the grassroots level.

Significance of Biju Patnaik’s Contribution

Biju Patnaik is remembered for his significant efforts in strengthening the panchayati raj system in India. His policies helped empower local governance and decentralized administration, which formed the foundation for inclusive development in rural areas. The 30% women’s reservation in panchayats, a historic decision led by Patnaik, continues to be a landmark achievement in India’s pursuit of gender equality and social justice.

Future Implications

The shift in the date of Panchayati Raj Day and the cancellation of the holiday on March 5 has sparked a political debate in Odisha, with the BJD accusing the BJP government of undermining the legacy of Biju Patnaik. This change also brings into question how Odisha will continue to balance its historical commitments to Patnaik’s vision while aligning with national observances. The decision to celebrate March 5 solely for Biju Patnaik's birthday will likely continue to stir debate, especially as political parties reflect on the impact of this delinking.

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