Bhubaneswar, 16 April (H.S.): Prithiviraj Harichandan has strongly criticised Naveen Patnaik over his recent remarks on delimitation, stating that creating confusion on the issue does not befit a senior leader.

Reacting to Patnaik’s letter, the Law Minister said attempts to generate ambiguity regarding the delimitation process were unwarranted. He urged the former Chief Minister to refrain from indirectly opposing or obstructing what he described as a significant and historic decision by the Central Government.

Harichandan stated that the proposed delimitation exercise, which may lead to an increase in the number of seats, would be beneficial for strengthening democracy. He added that raising concerns over the potential increase in parliamentary seats was unnecessary and could mislead the public.

He further alleged that the demand for a special session on the issue reflects a political strategy by the Biju Janata Dal (BJD) to indirectly oppose key reforms. The Minister also claimed that such a stance could be interpreted as resistance to broader measures like women’s reservation.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Monalisa Panda