Odisha Never Recommended Bharat Ratna For Biju

 BHUBANESWAR: Even though the ruling BJD is demanding Bharat Ratna for former chief minister Biju Patnaik at different platforms, the Odisha government has never recommended the name of the legendary leader for country’s highest civilian award.

Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik informed the state assembly it on Tuesday.

In a written reply to a question of BJP MLA Dilip Ray, the chief minister said 75 people from Odisha had received Padma awards so far while no one has received Bharat Ratna from the state.

Notably, the ruling BJD have been demanding Bharat Ratna for Biju Patnaik. It is celebrating the birth centenary of the legendary leader this year.