NEW DELHI, June 12, 2024 – The Congress party has launched a scathing critique against the central government, alleging a systematic reduction in Odisha’s share of central funding in recent years. Congress general secretary Jairam Ramesh posed pointed questions to Prime Minister Narendra Modi ahead of the swearing-in ceremony of Mohan Charan Majhi as Chief Minister.

Ramesh highlighted concerns over central transfers to Odisha, citing reports that indicate a decline from 57% of revenue receipts in 2017-18 to 38% in 2021-22, according to the Comptroller and Auditor General (CAG).

“The previous government of the ‘one-third’ Pradhan Mantri had steadily reduced Odisha’s Central funding in recent years,” Ramesh stated, questioning whether PM Modi intends to perpetuate this trend.

The Congress’s criticism comes amidst preparations for Mohan Charan Majhi’s inauguration as Odisha’s new Chief Minister, underscoring ongoing tensions over resource allocation and financial support from the central government.