Bhubaneswar, Jan 29: Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge launched a veiled attack on Naveen Patnaik-led Biju Janata Dal government while addressing the “Odisha Bachao Samavesh” rally in Bhubaneswar on Monday.

Without naming 5T chairman, VK Pandian, Kharge said that the State government is being run by an officer from outside. He said if Odia officers and leaders can guide the country then why the leaders in Odisha need outsiders for guidance.

“You are running the government through an officer? Are politicians here finished? Odisha’s officers and leaders can lead the country. Why do you need an outsider,” he asked.

Kharge said that there were good relationships between Biju Patnaik and Pandit Jawahar Lal Nehru.

“The older Patnaik (Naveen’s father and former Congress leader Biju Patnaik) used to believe in Nehru ji‘s ideology. But the current Patnaik believes in BJP’s ideology.”

Comparing Naveen with his father, Kharge said, “All the work happened during Congress’ time and that Patnaik supported it. What has Modi and BJD done together?”

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This was Kharge’s maiden visit to Odisha after becoming the Congress president.

Congress has been reduced to the number three party in the state, after ruling Biju Janata Dal (BJD) and the BJP.