Argus News - MLA Arun Sahoo’s ‘Peeda’ Praises Biju Babu, Digs At Naveen Patnaik

Bhubaneswar, Feb 3: Senior BJD leader and Nayagarh MLA Arun Sahoo has triggered a fresh debate in Odisha’s political circles with the release of his new Odia book ‘Peeda’. The book, which means “pain” or “suffering” in Odia, blends personal observations with sharp commentary on governance. While it praises former Chief Minister Biju Patnaik’s vision, it indirectly criticises the current leadership, with many interpreting it as a veiled reference to Leader of Opposition in State assembly, Naveen Patnaik.

Sahoo explains that his inspiration for ‘Peeda’ came during the recent Nuapada by-election, where he spent nearly a month travelling across villages and towns. The socio-economic conditions he witnessed — poverty, malnutrition, lack of civic sense, and limited opportunities — compelled him to document the struggles of ordinary people. Initially intended to focus solely on Nuapada, the book expanded to highlight issues prevalent across Odisha.

In ‘Peeda’, Sahoo raises pointed questions: “Who is responsible for corruption, backwardness, and mismanagement? Why has Odisha not reached the peak of progress despite decades of governance?” He laments that despite long years of self-rule, the state has failed to improve education, healthcare, living standards, and civic responsibility.

The book also highlights Biju Patnaik’s foresight in reorganising districts, which eased administrative access for citizens. Arun recalls how, before reorganisation, people had to travel long distances to district headquarters, often treating the journey like a pilgrimage due to poor transport and accommodation facilities. He credits Biju’s leadership for reducing such hardships.

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Adding another dimension, Sahoo writes that “there is nothing more humiliating than not being able to read and write in Odia.” Political observers note that this remark has triggered speculation, as Naveen Patnaik, despite ruling Odisha for 24 years and now serving as Leader of Opposition, is known to struggle with speaking Odia fluently. Many see this as Arun Sahoo’s indirect criticism of Naveen, raising questions about cultural identity and leadership.

The book is expected to trigger wide-ranging discussions in Odisha’s political and intellectual circles, juxtaposing admiration for Biju Patnaik with criticism of the present dispensation.