BHUBANESWAR: BJP's Puri Lok Sabha candidate Sambit Patra on Monday triggered a national controversy with his unwitting remark that "Lord Jagannath is .
The controversial remarks made by the BJP leader Sambit Patra that Lord Jagannath is a devotee bhakt of Prime Minister Narendra Modi has triggered a politic
Prime Minister Narendra Modi enquires about the Ratna Bhandar keys mystery at Puri Jagannath temple, pledges to reveal the circumstances if BJP forms govt in Odisha. BJP uses Ratna Bhandar as a key narrative in state politics, raising contentious issues in election rallies. BJD refutes false claims and assures opening of Ratna Bhandar in July under a retired Supreme Court judge's supervision.
BJP spokesperson Sambit Patra sparked controversy by suggesting Lord Jagannath is a devotee of PM Modi after a roadshow in Odisha s Puri. Patra later clarified it was a slip of the tongue, apologizing for the mistake. However, the comment led to widespread condemnation, with Odisha CM Naveen Patnaik calling it an insult to the Lord and millions of devotees. Opposition leaders also criticized the BJP, with Patra s gaffe becoming a focal point in the Odisha elections.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi held a massive roadshow in Puri to boost BJP's prospects in the elections in Odisha. The roadshow was accompanied by Puri Lok Sabha candidate Sambit Patra, assembly nominee Jayanta Sarangi, and BJP state president Manmohan Samal. Modi offered prayers at the Jagannath Temple and expressed gratitude for the support received during the roadshow.