One of the most prestigious parliamentary segments in Odisha- Kendrapara is going witness a high-pitch poll battle with three major parties BJD, BJP and Congress crossing swords this time in the ensuing Lok Sabha election. The ruling Biju Janata Dal (BJD), which has been retaining the seat since 1998, has aimed at continuing the trend this time too. The regional party has chosen a new young face, who had recently switched from Congress to BJD.
Ommcom News caught the young leader, Ansuman Mohanty, a former MLA and son of veteran politician Late Nalini Mohanty, who explained his vision, agenda for the people of Kendrapara and the challenges he is facing currently during electioneering in a telephonic chat with Editor-in-Chief Jajati Karan.
Catch the complete interview of Ansuman Mohanty here—
Q– Give three reasons that why the people of Kendrapara would vote for you.
Ans–The first reason, is Kendrapara is considered the BJD citadel. The trend has been continuing since the time of Biju Babu. People of Kendrapara were with Biju Babu in the past and now, they are also supporting Naveen Babu because of the welfare activities he has undertaken for the constituency.
Secondly, this time a candidate who is a son of the soil is contesting the poll. I am also the son of Late Nalini Mohanty, a veteran political figure in Odisha. So, I think people will support the son of the soil irrespective of party lines.
Third, the health and education sector underwent a massive transformation. Industries are coming here to generate more employment opportunities. Considering all these facts, people will vote for BJD.
Q–What are the major challenges you are facing during the campaign?
Ans– I don’t face any challenge as far as the acceptance of people is concerned. But, the current heat wave condition has emerged as a major hindrance before canvassing. Because we have to arrange indoor meetings as no outdoor activities can be undertaken due to hot and humid conditions. Another thing is the drinking water crisis during poll campaign as so many water projects are under construction.
Q–What three important changes would you like to bring in Kendrapara if voted to power?
Ans—My major focus would be on employment generation in Kendrapara so that large-scale migration would be prevented.
Secondly, I would also like to bring a change in health infrastructure. The infrastructure in district headquarters hospitals and other health centres in Kendrapara needs to be strengthen. I would like to work in this direction.
My third point of focus would be on how educated youths would be skilled through vocational training. So that, youth could be more self-sufficient after completion of their education.
Q–What is your biggest strength which would help you win the election?
Ans--I am completely dedicated towards my job i.e politics. I am neither an industrialist nor a businessman. In the past, I was with the people during my tenure as an MLA and when I lost the election, I was also working for the people. Now I am contesting on a BJD ticket and the party has given me a chance to become an MP. Wherever I am visiting now, I observe that people are extending unconditional love and support. Earlier, my work was confined to only Rajnagar-Pattamundai. Now, I got a wider space i.e. the entire Kendrapara Lok Sabha constituency.
Q- What transition are you feeling after switching party?
Ans– I have not switched to BJD on my own. Rather, I did this only in the people’s interest and will. They want the development and welfare works to reach them directly without any corruption. So, they insisted on changing the guard.
