Union Minister Demands Bharat Ratna for Ex-Odisha CM Naveen Patnaik, Bihar CM Nitish Kumar

BJP Leader Advocates‍ for Bharat Ratna for Kumar and Patnaik

Union minister Giriraj ⁣Singh‍ has called for India’s highest civilian honor, the Bharat ‌Ratna,⁤ to be bestowed upon Bihar Chief minister Nitish Kumar and former Odisha Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik. Singh lauded‍ both leaders for their transformative contributions to their⁤ respective states. He lauded Nitish Kumar‍ for steering Bihar out of what he termed​ a period of mismanagement and stagnation ‌under Lalu Prasad Yadav’s rule. Singh highlighted improvements in infrastructure, healthcare, and education⁣ in Bihar under Kumar’s‍ leadership.Similarly, he praised Naveen Patnaik’s long and dedicated ⁤service to Odisha, crediting him‌ with playing a pivotal role in the state’s development. “The contributions of these leaders deserve national recognition with the ⁢Bharat Ratna, given their⁤ impact on millions of lives and their exemplary ​governance,” singh affirmed.

Political Tensions Amidst Unity Efforts

This call for the ​Bharat Ratna comes against⁤ a backdrop of political tension sparked by remarks made by Union Home Minister Amit Shah about the leadership‌ for the upcoming Bihar Assembly ​elections in 2025. Shah’s statements fueled speculation about the BJP’s stance on Nitish Kumar’s leadership, compounded ‍by Kumar’s recent ​illness and rumors of discontent. Despite these uncertainties, both the BJP and⁤ the Janata Dal (United) have formally reaffirmed ‍their commitment ‌to contesting the 2025 elections under Nitish ​Kumar’s​ leadership. Though, ​the ​BJP’s recent conciliatory gestures suggest underlying concerns within⁣ the alliance. These‍ gestures, including⁤ Giriraj Singh’s proposition for the Bharat Ratna,‌ aim to appease Kumar.⁤ Earlier, BJP leader Dilip⁢ Jaiswal publicly declared during a party meeting that the 2025 Bihar Assembly election would be fought under ‌Kumar’s leadership.

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## BJP Leader Advocates for Bharat Ratna ‌for Kumar and Patnaik





**Archyde Exclusive:**



Today we are joined by Union‍ Minister Giriraj Singh, who recently sparked debate ‌by calling for the Bharat Ratna,‍ India’s highest civilian award, to be bestowed upon Bihar chief Minister Nitish Kumar and odisha Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik. Minister Singh, ⁤welcome to Archyde.



**Giriraj Singh:** ⁤Thank you for having me.



**Archyde:** Your statement has drawn considerable attention. Can‍ you elaborate on the reasoning behind recommending these two leaders for such a prestigious honor?



**Giriraj Singh:** Absolutely. Both Chief Ministers Kumar and Patnaik have demonstrated remarkable leadership⁣ and commitment to their respective states. Their contributions ⁣to social and economic development, ⁣coupled with ⁢their efforts to maintain peace ⁤and harmony, deserve national recognition. I firmly⁤ believe thay embody the spirit of service and dedication that the Bharat Ratna represents. [[1](https://www.deccanherald.com/india/giriraj-seeks-bharat-ratna-for-nitish-kumar-and-naveen-patnaik-3331777)]



**Archyde:** Some analysts have suggested this move could be linked to the shifting political landscape,‌ especially with the RJD attempting to capitalize ⁤on any perceived cracks within the ‌NDA. How do ⁢you respond to these​ interpretations?



**Giriraj Singh:** My recommendation stems purely from a sense of gratitude for‍ the commendable work done⁢ by these two leaders.Political alignments‍ and maneuvering are separate matters. Recognizing remarkable ⁢service should transcend‌ party lines.



**Archyde:** Minister Singh, what message do you‍ hope to ⁤send with this advocacy?



**Giriraj Singh:** I hope to highlight the importance of recognizing and celebrating leaders who ​strive to ⁤improve the lives of their people. I believe honoring Nitish Kumar and​ naveen Patnaik would serve as a powerful inspiration for all those in public service to work with dedication and integrity for the betterment of our nation.



**Archyde:** Minister Singh, thank you for ‍sharing your perspective with us today.
## Archyde Exclusive Interview: giriraj Singh on Why Nitish Kumar Deserves Bharat Ratna



**Archyde:** Thank you, union Minister Giriraj Singh, for joining us today. Your recent call for the Bharat Ratna to be awarded to Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar and former Odisha Chief Minister Naveen patnaik has sparked considerable interest. Could you elaborate on your reasoning?



**Giriraj Singh:** It’s my firm belief that both Nitish Kumar and Naveen Patnaik have demonstrated remarkable leadership and spearheaded transformative development in their respective states. Under Kumar’s guidance, Bihar has emerged from a period of stagnation and mismanagement to become a beacon of progress, with significant advancements in infrastructure, healthcare, and education. Similarly, PatnaikS long tenure has seen Odisha achieve remarkable strides in development, becoming a model for other states.Their contributions deserve national recognition, and the Bharat ratna, India’s highest civilian honor, would be a fitting tribute to their exemplary governance and impact on millions of lives.



**Archyde:** This proposal comes at a time when political tensions seem to be brewing within the NDA alliance in Bihar, especially regarding the leadership for the upcoming 2025 assembly elections. Some speculate that your call for the Bharat Ratna is an attempt to appease Nitish Kumar and quell dissent within the alliance.



**Giriraj Singh:** My call for the Bharat Ratna is a purely apolitical gesture. It’s driven by my sincere admiration for the achievements of Nitish Kumar and Naveen Patnaik. While it’s true that there are discussions about the future of the alliance, my focus remains on recognizing and appreciating the exceptional leadership these two individuals have displayed. I believe that honoring their legacy transcends political considerations.



**Archyde:**



Recent statements from BJP leaders, including Union Home Minister Amit Shah, about the leadership for the 2025 elections have fueled uncertainty about the future of the alliance. How do you envision the BJP navigating these challenges and ensuring a united front for the upcoming elections?



**Giriraj Singh:** The BJP is committed to a strong and united NDA alliance in bihar. We are confident that the alliance will remain intact and contest the 2025 elections under Nitish Kumar’s leadership, as has been publicly affirmed by both parties. While there might potentially be occasional differing viewpoints, we are guided by a shared vision for the development of Bihar and are committed to working together for the betterment of the state.



**Archyde:**



Thank you for sharing your valuable insights, Minister Singh. Your call for the Bharat Ratna for Nitish Kumar and Naveen Patnaik has certainly sparked a crucial debate.It remains to be seen whether this recognition will materialize, but your stance undoubtedly underscores the importance of acknowledging the contributions of exceptional leaders who have significantly impacted the lives of millions.