Bhubaneswar, May 8: Union Home Minister Amit Shah’s scheduled visit to Odisha on May 10 and 11 has been cancelled due to emerging security concerns in the country.

The visit, which included key events in Sambalpur and Bhubaneswar, was expected to feature foundation stone-laying ceremonies for multiple development projects and a public address.

According to sources, the cancellation comes in light of potential geopolitical tensions between India and Pakistan, prompting a reassessment of high-profile visits. Sambalpur MLA Jayanarayan Mishra confirmed the development, stating that the decision was made after reviewing the current situation.

HM Shah’s itinerary initially included a visit to Jatni, where he was set to lay the foundation stone for a National Forensic Science University campus. He was also scheduled to visit Puri’s Jagannath Temple before heading to Sambalpur, where he was expected to inaugurate several central government-backed infrastructure projects.

The cancellation has sparked discussions among political analysts, with many speculating on its implications for Odisha’s political landscape. The BJP had planned to use HM Shah’s visit as a strategic move to strengthen its presence in the state, especially ahead of upcoming elections.

While no official statement has been released regarding a rescheduled visit, party leaders remain optimistic about future engagements in Odisha.

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