n On BJP’s preparations for the simultaneous electionsThe BJP has readied its organizations across more than 37,000 booths. It has committees in 8,000 shakti kendras. Our strength is rising every day. The party’s parliamentary board is likely to decide on the candidates soon. We are ready for any challenge from political rivals. We hope the people of Odisha will vote to bring back Prime Minister Narendra Modi at the Centre and dislodge Naveen Patnaik here. There is huge anti-incumbency against Naveen because of inefficiency, corruption and rising crime against women. The state has lost crucial years under him. The Congress continues to be rejected by the people.n On anti-incumbency against ModiThere is no anti-incumbency against the Prime Minister and his government. I believe that the people are appreciating his achievements over these five years and are comparing them with those of past governments. Modiji has taken India’s standing at the global arena to a different level. The people have faith in his leadership. The Modi government’s social welfare schemes such as Ujjwala, Ayushman Bharat, PM-Kisan and so many others are path-breaking.n On BJP’s Mission 120+ in Odisha (it claimed it would win at least 120 of the 147 assembly seats in the state)We are heading in that direction. From the people’s response and the party’s preparedness, I have no doubt that BJP will sweep the polls here. The people see new hope in Modiji’s leadership and the promise of a new India and a new Odisha.n On the party’s CM faceThe BJP is a democratic party. There are appropriate fora to decide such matters. The parliamentary board takes a call on the CM candidate. The leader chosen by MLAs of the largest party after the elections becomes CM.n On Naveen’s announcement of 33 per cent reservation for women in Lok Sabha seatsThe BJD’s decision to field seven women candidates is a ploy to divert attention from crime against them. Every day, the media reports rapes of minor girls. There are many instances where criminals have got political patronage and justice has been denied to the survivors. Women are angry with Naveen.n On BJP fielding womenThe party’s parliamentary board will pick the most suitable candidates, those who believe in the party’s ideals and Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s leadership and vision. Women are definitely a priority for the party.n On the polls being held in four phasesTaking a decision on the election schedule is the prerogative of the Election Commission of India. As a political party, we have to plan our poll campaign keeping the schedule in mind. There is no point in evaluating the number of polling days.

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