Amid ongoing suspense over the name of Odisha new chief minister, the swearing-in ceremony for the maiden BJP government in the state has been rescheduled to June 12, 2024. The event, initially planned for June 10, was postponed due to prior commitments of Prime Minister-designate Narendra Modi, who is expected to attend. This information was reported by PTI, citing BJP leaders Jatin Mohanty and Vijaypal Singh Tomar. Grand preparations are underway for the ceremony at Janata Maidan in Bhubaneswar.
Grand Preparations and Anticipation
Odisha Chief Secretary Pradeep Kumar Jena announced that the state is preparing for an attendance of over 30,000 people at the swearing-in ceremony. Eminent guests from various sectors and diverse societal backgrounds are expected to participate. Jena emphasized the extensive logistical planning, including reception arrangements for important delegates arriving by air, train, and road.
Speaking to ANI, the Chief Secretary detailed the administration’s readiness: “We had two rounds of reviewing in the last two days. We are reviewing the progress of work. We have distributed work among senior officers starting from the reception of important guests and delegates.”
Security and Traffic Arrangements
Security is a top priority, with special traffic arrangements being made due to the anticipated large attendance. Odisha DGP Arun Kumar Sarangi confirmed the arrival of the Special Protection Group team and the deployment of sufficient forces. “The PM is coming for the oath-taking ceremony. We are deploying a sufficient number of forces. We are expecting many VIPs, CMs, MoS, and other VIPs to attend the function,” Sarangi said.
Political Speculations
Meanwhile, speculation continues over the new chief minister. Senior BJP leader and newly elected MLA Suresh Pujari’s sudden trip to New Delhi has triggered discussions about his potential candidacy for the top post. His supporters believe he was summoned for discussions with central leaders.
BJP’s Victory
The BJP secured a comfortable majority in the 147-member Assembly, winning 78 seats. The party campaigned under the leadership of Modi without naming a chief ministerial candidate, adding to the current suspense over the new CM.
The upcoming ceremony marks a significant milestone for the BJP in Odisha, reflecting the party’s strategic shift and the state’s growing prominence in national politics.
