PM Narendra Modi Explains Why He Politely Declined Donald Trump’s Dinner Invitation: Prioritised Odisha Visit
PM Modi declined Trump’s dinner invite to visit Odisha, praised BJP’s governance, and criticized Congress for neglecting tribal regions and development.
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Prime Minister Narendra Modi revealed on Friday that he declined an invitation from US President Donald Trump for a dinner meeting in Washington, choosing instead to visit Odisha.
Speaking at a public event in Bhubaneswar, Modi shared, “Just two days ago, I was in Canada for the G7 Summit. While I was there, US President Trump called me and said, ‘Since you are in Canada, come via Washington. Let’s have dinner and talk.’ He insisted on the invitation.”
However, Modi respectfully declined, saying, “I told the US President, thank you for the invitation. But it is very important for me to go to the land of Mahaprabhu,” referring to Odisha and the revered Jagannath Temple in Puri. He added, “Your love and devotion to Mahaprabhu brought me to this land,” addressing the crowd.
Modi Slams Congress, Praises BJP Government in Odisha
During the event marking the first anniversary of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) government in Odisha, PM Modi launched a sharp critique of the Congress party. He accused Congress of deliberately neglecting tribal communities, keeping their regions underdeveloped, and branding them as the “red corridor” for political gain.
Modi said, “The party which ruled India for decades had neglected the tribal community and used them merely for political benefits.” He highlighted that tribal-dominated areas were left backward and affected by Maoist violence, with over 125 such districts ignored by previous governments.
Odisha’s Progress Under BJP Rule
The Prime Minister praised the current Odisha government for its achievements in the past year, calling the anniversary a celebration of “good governance.” Modi noted, “This anniversary is not just of the government, it is the anniversary of the establishment of good governance.”
He emphasised the BJP's commitment to public service and rebuilding trust with the people. “The government has completed one year with good governance and public services,” Modi said.
Addressing past shortcomings, Modi claimed Odisha had suffered from corruption and poor infrastructure under previous regimes but insisted the BJP was making efforts to change that narrative.
