BJD's defeat in 2024 elections due to disregard for Odia pride, says CM Majhi.

Bhubaneswar: On Friday, the 2024 Lok Sabha and state Assembly elections were a hot topic in Odisha as Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi voiced his firm belief in the significance of "Odia Asmita" (Odia pride). He claimed that this was a major factor in the defeat of the previous BJD government, as they had "outsourced" the state's administration to non-Odia bureaucrats. The CM's statement seemed to be directed towards VK Pandian, a Tamil officer who was once a trusted aide of former Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik and even joined the BJD.

Although he did not explicitly mention any names, it was clear that the CM was referring to Pandian and his role in the previous government. Explaining the reason behind the importance of Odia Asmita in the elections, Majhi said, "As an ordinary Odia, it is clear to me that being an Odia means having a strong connection to our language and identity. In the last elections, the people were outraged by the lack of respect and representation for Odia culture and values." He emphasized the need for a leader who understands the language and sentiments of the people and can incorporate them into the governance system.

Majhi went on to say that this was sorely lacking in the previous government, without naming anyone in particular. He also mentioned Pandian's withdrawal from active politics after the BJD's defeat in the Lok Sabha and Assembly polls, implying that this was a clear indication of the people's discontent with the administration being handed over to non-Odia officials. The CM proudly declared that Odisha is a state that has given the world the message of bravery, peace, friendship, excellence, and unity.

He highlighted the rich history of the state, from the transformation of Chandashoka into Dharmashoka to the brave rule of Kharavela, who expanded the empire from the Ganga to the Godavari and restored the glory of Kalinga. Being a prominent tribal leader, Majhi also mentioned how Odisha has brought together people of all religions under the chant of Jai Jagannath. He added that the state has also played a significant role in India's freedom struggle with the iconic slogan "Vande Mataram." The Chief Minister acknowledged that the pace of development in Odisha was slow during the BJD's tenure, mainly because the government did not give enough importance to the Odia language and literature.

"When a government itself does not prioritize a language, its decline is inevitable. This was a source of frustration for language enthusiasts, literature lovers, and those who take pride in their Odia identity," Majhi stated. However, he clarified that this does not mean that Odia people are against other languages.

He acknowledged the importance of English as a global language that connects us to the rest of the world, but stressed that it should not be the sole path of development. Majhi highlighted the role of language and literature in shaping civilizations, citing examples from Greek, Persian, and Indian history. He mentioned how ancient texts like the Vedas, Mahabharata, Ramayana, and Upanishads continue to inspire and influence our knowledge and philosophy.

Since taking office, Majhi has made considerable efforts to re-establish "Odia Asmita." He mentioned the successful opening of the Ratna Bhandar of Lord Jagannath, a longstanding demand of the people of Odisha. "In the last 21 months, we have allocated more funds for the promotion of Odia language, culture, and heritage. A special allocation of Rs 200 crore has been made for 'Odia Asmita,' and Rs 500 crore for the development of Jagannath culture, which is at the heart of our Odia pride," the Chief Minister said.

He urged all parents and guardians to converse with their children in Odia, read Odia newspapers, watch Odia channels, and immerse themselves in Odia literature. He emphasized that Odia identity should not just be a slogan but a way of life. In conclusion, Majhi projected himself as the "chief servitor" of Odisha and encouraged everyone to embrace their Odia roots with pride.

The article ended by stating that Majhi's statements were reported by Odisha POST, the state's leading English daily.