Color Politics: Odisha's Saffron State Buildings Stir Controversy

The BJP government in Odisha has declared that all state-owned buildings, both new and existing, must adhere to a saffron color scheme, per a recent notification from the Works department. The order sets RGB shades, resembling light saffron and terracotta, for the exterior walls and borders.

This directive applies to all state government departments and public sector undertakings, following a similar mandate from the previous year. Additionally, government schools were earlier instructed to use orange hues for construction, repairs, and renovations. A significant change in school uniform colors was also implemented under the Mukhyamantri Chhatra Chhatri Paridhan Yojana.

The opposition BJD has criticized these efforts, suggesting they distract from pressing issues like women's safety and governance failings. BJD spokesman Lenin Mohanty accused the BJP of neglecting developmental activities and focusing on aesthetics while governance is compromised.

(With inputs from agencies.)