Odisha CM Presents First BJP Budget, Opens Jagannath Temple's Inner Ratna Bhandar

Odisha CM Mohan Charan Majhi announced the first budget of the BJP government to be presented on July 25. The BJP government has ensured direct interaction of the CM with the people. Additionally, the inner Ratna Bhandar of Shri Jagannath Temple was opened to relocate valuables under strict SOPs.

Mohan Charan Majhi, the Chief Minister of Odisha, announced on Thursday that the BJP government will present its first budget in the assembly on July 25. This budget aims to empower the people and communities of the state. Majhi emphasized that people will now be able to interact directly with the CM, something that was not possible for years under previous administrations.

"With the blessings of Lord Jagannath, the BJP has formed its first government in Odisha. This marks the beginning of 'Nua Odisha'. The Chief Minister will now engage directly with the people, a significant change from the past 24 years," stated Majhi. He added that the forthcoming budget would empower every community and individual in the state.

Criticizing the previous BJD-led government for its handling of the Ratna Bhandar (treasure trove) at Shri Jagannath Temple in Puri, Majhi noted that the BJP has fulfilled its promise to open it. The Ratna Bhandar, last opened four decades ago, was accessed today to move valuables to a temporary location, following strict Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs). A committee led by Justice Biswanath Rath oversaw the process, with security arrangements supervised by Puri Superintendent of Police Pinak Mishra.

The King of Puri, Gajapati Maharaja Dibyasingha Deb, visited the shrine to oversee the shifting process. He confirmed that both the outer and inner Ratna Bhandar ornaments were successfully relocated. Following this, the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) will undertake repairs on the treasure trove areas.

(With inputs from agencies.)