BJD and BJP Clash Over Healthcare in Odisha Ahead of Elections

The Biju Janata Dal (BJD) and Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) have traded accusations over their respective health schemes in Odisha as tensions rise ahead of the upcoming general elections. The BJD has alleged that the BJP is plotting to halt the state's Biju Swasthya Kalyan Yojana (BSKY) universal health coverage program. Under BSKY, patients receive free treatment at government hospitals and coverage of up to ₹10 lakhs for women and ₹5 lakhs for men annually at private hospitals.

According to the BJD, over 36 lakh patients were treated under BSKY in the last year, saving the needy people of Odisha over ₹3,000 crore. However, the BJP has countered that the BJD government has failed to adopt the central Ayushman Bharat scheme and fill vacant posts for doctors, pharmacists, and laboratory technicians. A BJP spokesperson claimed the state has a shortage of 20,000 doctors and over 10,000 vacant nursing staff positions, leading to a "disastrous phase" in Odisha's healthcare.

The political sparring has extended to other issues as well. The BJP has lodged a complaint with Odisha's Chief Electoral Officer, alleging violations of the Model Code of Conduct by senior police officers and state government officials. They accused the Commissionerate Police of improper security arrangements during a BJD leader's hospital visit. The BJP also sought action against Bhubaneswar Development Authority officials for approving the appointment of three District Election Officers on April 10 despite the code being in effect.

Meanwhile, several BJD leaders, including sitting MPs and MLAs, have quit the party to join the BJP in recent weeks. Senior BJD leader and former Chitrakonda MLA Dambaru Sisa cited negligence and disrespect within party ranks as reasons for his resignation. BJP leaders have criticized Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik's candidacy in western Odisha, saying he has "betrayed" the people of the region by not fulfilling promises made during previous by-elections.

Why this matters: The heated exchanges between the BJD and BJP reflect the high stakes in Odisha as the general elections approach. Healthcare has emerged as a key battleground, with both parties seeking to win voter support through their flagship schemes. The outcome could have significant implications for the state's political terrain and the delivery of health services to millions of residents.

In the midst of the war of words, the BJD has lodged its own complaint against a BJP candidate for allegedly threatening government officials on election duty. With the election commission monitoring the situation closely, the coming weeks are likely to see further allegations and counter-allegations from both sides. Amid the political jockeying, the people of Odisha will be watching to see which party can deliver on its promises to improve access to quality healthcare across the state.

Key Takeaways

• BJD and BJP clash over healthcare schemes in Odisha ahead of elections.
• BJD claims BSKY saved ₹3,000 crore, BJP alleges shortage of medical staff.
• BJP lodges complaints over MCC violations, BJD leaders quitting to join BJP.
• Healthcare emerges as a key battleground, with implications for state politics.
• Allegations and counter-allegations continue as election commission monitors the situation.