TV
Senior BJP leader Jayanarayan Mishra has made a strong statement regarding the ongoing debate over ‘Bande Utkala Janani’ and its recognition as the state anthem of Odisha. Clarifying his stance, Mishra said that the Supreme Court has ruled that no state can have an official song or flag, as the country follows a single National Anthem and National Flag.
Historical Perspective on Odisha’s Formation
The BJP MLA further highlighted that the present state of Odisha was formed by merging three distinct regions—Utkala, Kalinga, and Koshala. Raising concerns, he questioned whether it would be fair to celebrate only one region while neglecting the others.
"Odisha was created by combining three regions—Utkala, Kalinga, and Koshala. If we recognize only ‘Bande Utkala Janani,’ which praises only Utkala, what about the other two regions? Should their identity be ignored?" Mishra questioned, adding that it is necessary to come up with a song respecting all 30 districts.
Also Read: Political controversy escalates in Odisha over Jayanarayan Mishra’s ‘merger mistake’ remark
‘Bande Odisha Janani’ An Acceptable Alternative
While expressing his reservations about the current anthem, Jayanarayan Mishra stated that he has no objection if the song is named ‘Bande Odisha Janani’ instead, as it would be inclusive of all regions of the state.
"I have no issues if the song is called ‘Bande Odisha Janani’ because that represents the entire state. Odisha’s progress depends on the development of all its regions, not just one," he said.
Call for Decentralization of Power and Cultural Recognition
Jayanarayan Mishra also stressed the need for decentralization of power and equal development across all regions. He urged that every region’s language, culture, and identity should be respected instead of favouring just one.
"Odisha’s development cannot happen unless every region gets equal importance. Decentralization is crucial to ensure governance reaches every corner of the state. Each region’s language and culture must be honoured," said Mishra.
No Attack on Odia Identity, Just a Demand for Regional Development
Defending his remarks, Mishra dismissed the criticism that his statements were an attack on Odia identity. He argued that raising concerns about his own region’s development should not be mistaken for diminishing Odisha’s unity.
Jayanarayan Mishra Attacks BJD
Jayanarayan Mishra further launched an attack on BJD which ruled for 24 years. I criticised them (BJD) as they failed to develop coastal and western Odisha as well, he alleged.
He further said, "When a Chief Minister did not speak in Odia, Odia Asmita was not harmed. So, when I demand development for my region, how can it be seen as an attack on Odia Asmita?"
The BJP leader’s statements have added fuel to the ongoing debate on the official status of ‘Bande Utkala Janani’, sparking discussions on regional representation and cultural inclusivity in Odisha’s governance and identity.
No comments could be obtained from BJD over the allegations levelled by the BJP MLA.
