In a symbolic act intended to promote social harmony and inclusivity, Baijayant Jay Panda, National Vice President of the Bharatiya Janata Party and Member of Parliament from Kendrapada, partook in a meal at an Anganwadi centre in Nuagaon that had reportedly been boycotted by certain sections of the local community.
The reported boycott stemmed from the fact that the cook at the Anganwadi kendra belongs to a Dalit community. Panda, who hails from a Brahmin background, deliberately chose to dine at the centre as a gesture meant to convey a strong message of unity, equality and social inclusion.
As per party sources, the MP engaged in discussions with Anganwadi workers as well as local residents during his visit. He stressed that caste-based discrimination has no place in a progressive society and highlighted the need to respect and support individuals who serve the community.
He particularly emphasised the significance of grassroots institutions like Anganwadi centres, which play a critical role in delivering child nutrition, early childhood education and basic health services.
The gesture was widely interpreted as an effort to bridge social divides and reaffirm the principle of equality. Supporters characterised it as a firm stand against untouchability and caste discrimination, urging the community to ensure that essential public welfare institutions such as Anganwadi centres continue to function smoothly and without interruption.
Anganwadi centres constitute an important component of India’s rural welfare system, providing supplementary nutrition, preschool education and health-related services to women and children, especially in underserved areas.
Panda’s action in Nuagaon has attracted considerable local attention, with party leaders stating that it represents a broader appeal for social unity, mutual respect and harmony among different communities.
