Bhubaneswar: A statement reportedly made by newly-appointed Odisha Governor Braj Mohan Ram about his plan to further strengthen Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) in the state has triggered a political controversy and sharp criticism from different quarters.
Odisha’s opposition Biju Janata Dal (BJD) condemned Governor designate Braj Mohan Ram’s reported remarks that he would “work to strengthen the BJP” after assuming office, saying the comments undermined the constitutional position of the post as an authority above party politics.
The BJD expressed shock over the remarks and released a video carried by PTI in which Ram was heard speaking about his future course of action after taking charge as governor.
In a statement, BJD media coordinator Lenin Mohanty claimed that Ram, while speaking to a news agency, clearly presented his objective to strengthen the BJP organisation in Odisha after he takes charge as Governor of the state.
“We are shocked to hear the senior leader’s response to PTI, where he reiterates that he will work towards strengthening BJP party organisation,” the BJD leader said.
“We Condemn, the statement which negates the fact that Honourable Governor is above Party Politics,” Mohanty said in his statement.
The reported statement of Ram, a three-time BJP MP from Jharkhand, has evoked sharp criticism from different quarters in Odisha.
Stating that neutrality of the post of Governor has been debated in the past, political observers said it is strange that the senior leader plans to work to help the BJP get more votes in the coming elections after he becomes Odisha’s Governor, a constitutional post.
Ram further stated that he would work for the poor, address fundamental issues and strive to meet people’s essential needs.
“The party has recognised a worker like me. I am grateful to Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Home Minister Amit Shah for their blessings,” Ram said outside Hanuman Temple in Ranchi’s Morabadi, where he offered prayers along with his family.
“I will work for the poor and ensure justice for those who are otherwise denied it. I will make efforts to address fundamental issues and strive to meet people’s essential needs, ensuring they face no difficulties. I will be working for the prosperity of the state,” he said
“I have worked hard consistently and remained an active and honest member of the organisation. Nowadays, people often switch to another party if they are denied a ticket. I stayed with the party and worked to ensure the victory of BJP candidates,” added Ram.
President Droupadi Murmu on Monday appointed Ram as Odisha’s new Governor of Odisha.
