Naveen Patnaik questions absence of national leaders during calamities

Ruling BJD president and Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik Wednesday said leaders of various national political parties visit Odisha during elections and disappear when people are in trouble.

"Where were these leaders when natural calamities like cyclone, flood and drought hit Odisha? These leaders just shed crocodile tears for the people of the state," said Patnaik, also president of the ruling BJD.

The chief minister said these leaders are now coming to Odisha for seeking votes as it is election time.

"I am all along with you (people) and will remain so.

These leaders will come only during elections, make promises to get votes and