"Naveen Patnaik's 25-Year Rule 'Lost Years' Of Odisha": Amit Shah To NDTV

The BJP's extensive campaigning in Odisha has been spearheaded by heavyweights like Mr Shah and Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

Home Minister Amit Shah, speaking exclusively with NDTV, slammed Odisha Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik's nearly 25-year tenure by terming it the "lost years" of Odisha. 

The BJP's extensive campaigning in the coastal state has been spearheaded by heavyweights like Mr Shah and Prime Minister Narendra Modi. As Mr Patnaik inches closer to becoming the country's longest-serving chief minister by eclipsing former Arunachal Pradesh leader Pawan Chamling, the BJP aims to turn the tables and form government in the state.

"When the history of this country is written, Naveen Patnaik's 25-year rule will be known as the 'lost years of Odisha'," declared Mr Shah. "Many states in India, by improving their infrastructure, healthcare, economy, and agriculture, are now contributing massively to the country's economy."