Take Responsibility, Not Indulge In Politics To Resolve Mahanadi Issue: Pradhan

Bhubaneswar: Union Petroleum Minister Dharmendra Pradhan on Friday slammed Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik for not taking responsibility to resolve the Mahanadi water issue and indulging in politics instead.

“Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik, who has been voted to power, has more responsibility than others to resolve the Mahanadi water issue. He should lead the joint management committee to protect the interest of Odisha,” said Pradhan at a press conference here.

But, the fate of the committee hangs in the balance after the Odisha government sought time, he added.

Pradhan said the state government is indulging in politics only to divert the attention of people from Kandhamal, Nagada and Motilal issues.

He said while there is a need to be united to fight for the interest of Odisha, the BJD government has indulged in politics over the issue.

“This is not a political issue. This  is about the future and rights of four cores people of Odisha,” said the Petroleum Minister.

He said BJP would publish a white paper on Mahanadi water usage and various agreements involving the river.

“Centre is aware of Odisha’s right to justice on Mahanadi issue. Prime Minister Narendra Modi has been briefed on the matter,” said Pradhan.