Bhubaneswar: The results of Gujarat and Himachal Pradesh stirred a political debate in the state about the possible outcome of upcoming Assembly elections in Orissa.
Both BJD and Congress here termed the Gujarat results for BJP as ‘disappointing’ and claimed that it will hardly have any impact on state elections and politics.
On the other hand the BJP leaders argued that the poll results will certainly favor growth of the saffron party in the state, which has set eyes on ‘Mission 120 plus’ during 2019 assembly elections.
Hours after Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik congratulated Prime Minister Narendra Modi for Gujarat and Himachal Pradesh victories, BJD spokesperson Samir Ranjan Das told reporters here that results in Gujarat and Himachal Pradesh were not satisfactory (for the BJP) considering the sharp decline in margins.
“These results will have no impact on Orissa voters,” said Das while asserting that people will continue to support the BJD, which has completed 18 years in power in the state and is also set to celebrate its 20th Foundation Day December 26.
Party’s general secretary Bijay Nayak, in a media statement, said that the poll results have shattered BJP’s dream of securing 150 seats in Gujarat and its margin has reduced drastically.
On the other hand, the Congress Bhawan, where party leaders and supporters were thronging for the last two days to celebrate Rahul Gandhi’s coronation, wore a deserted look Monday. However, Congress leaders in state also expressed a view similar to BJP.
“Though we lost in both the states, we are not on the back foot. We have given a tough fight and have improved our tally. In Orissa also will perform better in the coming days,” said Congress Chief Whip Taraprasad Bahinipati.
“BJP’s victory will certainly not have any impact on state politics here,” the Jeypore MLA said.
Meanwhile, the BJP camp in the state, like in other states, remained upbeat over the election results. Party leaders who celebrated the triumph described it as ‘emphatic’ and claimed that it will help the party in Orissa during the next assembly and general elections.
“The victory will certainly have an impact in Orissa,” said union minister and BJP leader Dharmendra Pradhan while stating that BJP is determined to achieve ‘Mission 120’ plus target in Orissa.
PNN
