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.
“We are shocked to hear his comments in a PTI video, where he reiterates that he would work towards strengthening the BJP. We condemn the remark as it negates the fact that the governor is above party politics,” BJD media coordinator Lenin Mohanty said in a statement.
The regional party’s objection centred on the expectation that a governor should remain above partisan politics while discharging constitutional responsibilities. The BJD said Ram’s reported comments were inconsistent with that position.
Mohanty also criticised the remarks, describing them as unbecoming of a governor. “We Condemn, the statement which negates the fact that Governor is above Party Politics,” he said.
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.
Apart from plans to strengthen BJP, Ram also stated that he would work for the poor, address fundamental issues and strive to meet people’s essential needs.
“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.
Ram, a three-time former BJP MP, was appointed governor of Odisha on Monday. His appointment and the reported comments have drawn criticism from different circles in the state.
The controversy has brought the question of political neutrality in the governor’s office into focus, with political observers maintaining that the constitutional position requires the office-holder to remain above party affiliations.
