Bhubaneswar: Addressing a public meeting in Odisha capital, BJP leader and veteran actress Hema Malini today criticized the BJD government and said it failed to address serious issues in the state.

Odisha faces serious issues like malnutrition, which the state government has failed to address. Despite being a cultural hub and rich in natural resources, the state has not seen much development under 50 years of Congress rule and 25 years of BJD governance. The BJD has neglected the state's potential, said Hema Malini at the 'Ashirwad Samavesh' event held at Salia Sahi here.

She praised the efforts of BJP's Bhubaneswar MP candidate Aparajita Sarangi in improving the lives of slum dwellers in Salia Sahi and other areas. She also highlighted a key promise from the party's manifesto, which includes Rs 50,000 cash vouchers for women.

"Despite several central schemes introduced by PM Narendra Modi, their benefits have not reached the poor in Odisha. A double-engine government would bring significant change and development to the state," she emphasized.

"The PM has ensured development nationwide, providing essential services such as drinking water, cooking gas, and health facilities. With a double-engine government, Odisha will see massive development," assured the senior BJP leader.