Mamata Banerjee meets Naveen Patnaik in Bhubaneswar, calls for 'upholding spirit of democracy'

Sharing updates about her meeting, Banerjee in a Facebook post wrote: Today, I met the Hon’ble CM of Odisha, Shri. Naveen Patnaik ji. It gives me immense pleasure to acknowledge the strong ties that Bengal and Odisha have maintained over the years. Our shared commitment to upholding the spirit of democracy is what unites us."

"Once again, I express my heartfelt gratitude to the Hon'ble CM of Odisha, Shri. Naveen Patnaik ji, the administration, and the people of Odisha for the warm welcome and hospitality extended to me. The hospitality of Odisha is truly unmatched.

"Further, I am glad to announce that we are currently in the process of constructing a Jagannath temple in Digha, West Bengal, as a representation of our common cultural heritage and beliefs.

"As neighboring states, we have a special bond that transcends borders. I hope that we continue to get stronger and work towards a brighter future for our people. May we always be bestowed with the blessings of Lord Jagannatha," she added.

Banerjee also recced sites in Puri for the upcoming construction of the West Bengal Government Guest House.

The guest house aims to offer convenient accommodation to tourists and visitors to Puri while also serving as a hub for intercultural exchanges and collaboration between the people of the two states, she said.

"I am confident that this guest house will not only be a home away from home for the visitors but also foster further tourism," Banerjee said.

The Bengal CM had earlier visited the Jagannatha Temple in Puri.

Her meeting with Patnaik comes days after she was visited by former Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister and Samajwadi Party (SP) chief Akhilesh Yadav in Kolkata.

Both the leaders gave a call for a front which will be an alternative to both the governing Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and a beleaguered opposition force Congress.