
BJP, Cong & BJD organise events in support of forces
BJP members, led by Ekamra-Bhubaneswar MLA Babu Singh, gathered at the temple with banners reading, "A lamp to support our Indian armed forces".Congress conducted a 'Tiranga Yatra' from Ram Mandir to Master Canteen Square earlier in the day. The procession, headed by OPCC president Bhakta Charan Das, saw participants chanting "Bharat Mata ki Jai".A Congress member said the event was organised to demonstrate their steadfast support for the armed forces, acknowledging their crucial role in defending the nation's borders.In another event, BJD also organised a special prayer ceremony and lighting of lamps at the Lingaraj Temple. BJD's Bhubaneswar district president Ashok Chandra Panda led the proceedings, accompanied by several senior party members. Prayers were offered to Lord Lingaraj for the safety and well-being of soldiers.

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