Prime Minister Narendra Modi addressed the recent cash seizure by the Directorate of Enforcement in Jharkhand, noting that while some applaud the central agency’s actions, others criticize him for curbing corruption and illicit gains.
“Today, mountains of currency notes are being found in the neighbouring state Jharkhand. People are saying “chori ho gaya aur mal pakad raha Modi waha” (theft has taken place and Modi has seized the robbed goods). Now tell me, if I stop their theft, stop their earning, stop their loot, won’t they abuse Modi or not? Despite the abuses, shouldn’t I be doing this work. Shouldn’t I be saving your money,” during his address at a public rally in Odisha’s Nabarangpur today, the Prime Minister stated.
Despite facing criticism for disrupting such activities, PM Modi emphasized the importance of his actions in safeguarding public funds and asked whether he should continue to pursue this work.
Earlier today, the Enforcement Directorate (ED) discovered more than Rs 20 crore at the residence of a domestic worker employed by Sanjiv Lal, the Personal Secretary to Jharkhand Rural Development Minister Alamgir Alam, during raids conducted at various locations in Ranchi on Monday morning.
Additionally, Prime Minister Modi criticized the Biju Janata Dal (BJD)-led administration in Odisha, accusing them of obstructing the execution of central government initiatives in the state. He also asserted that the few schemes that were implemented were tainted by corruption.
Prime Minister Modi expressed his dismay at the lack of opportunities provided by the BJD government to the people of Odisha, despite their strength and passion. He criticized the administration for obstructing the implementation of Modi-led schemes and alleged corruption in those that were executed. Furthermore, PM Modi highlighted the neglect of women’s interests by the Odisha government, contrasting it with the financial assistance provided by the central government to pregnant women.
The current administration in Odisha displays a lack of concern for women’s welfare. In contrast, the central government allocates Rs 6,000 to each pregnant woman to ensure essential nutrition for both mother and child. Surprisingly, this scheme has not been implemented by the Odisha government. Conversely, the BJP government is dedicated to women’s empowerment, evident through initiatives like the ‘Subhadra Scheme’ in Odisha aimed at providing financial empowerment to women.
Additionally, under the BJP’s governance, initiatives such as the Van Dhan Kendra Yojana have been launched, reservation benefits for SCs and STs extended for the next decade, and notably, India witnessed its first Adivasi President during this period.
PM Modi further emphasized that the BJD-led state government failed to utilize the funds provided by the Centre effectively. Despite the allocation of Rs 10,000 crore for the Jal Jeevan Mission in Odisha, the government struggled to allocate the funds appropriately. He highlighted discrepancies such as poor road conditions in villages despite funding for road construction and the BJD government taking credit for centrally-sponsored schemes like free rice distribution.
PM Modi urged the audience to reflect on his leadership’s track record, highlighting a fivefold increase in the budget for tribal welfare and the establishment of over 400 Eklavya Model Residential Schools in tribal areas during his tenure. He urged the people to consider giving the BJP an opportunity, promising to address all their concerns and elevate Odisha to the top position within five years. PM Modi assured the audience that their welfare was the BJP’s top priority.