Is BJP playing Mahatab card to counter Biju legacy in Odisha? BJD and BJP lock horns

The grand 125th birth anniversary celebrations of Utkal Keshari Dr Harekrushna Mahatab have now become a contentious issue between BJP and BJD in Odisha. The saffron camp criticized the previous government for allegedly failing to acknowledge prominent historical figures during the period when it was in power in the state.

The ruling party has been playing the Mahatab card to counter the Biju legacy, BJD alleged.

The political climate in the State is abuzz with activities regarding the impressive observance of Dr Mahatab's birth anniversary, reaching from Delhi to the regional level. Accusing the BJD of neglecting such a distinguished personality, the BJP said, "We are stepping away from the previous government’s approach."

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In response to the allegations, the BJD dismissed the claim and asserted that there should be no politics over legendary persons like Biju and Mahatab.

The year-long celebration was inaugurated in New Delhi and was attended by President Droupadi Murmu, marking a national recognition of Dr Mahatab's contributions. The BJP contends that this initiative aims to counter the established legacy of Biju Patnaik, suggesting the BJD has prioritised Patnaik’s influence over the contributions of other legendary personalities.

BJD refuted the BJP's accusations, asserting that it has also honoured numerous leaders in various state-level programmes. The party also emphasised that comparing the regional identities should not diminish any single historical figure’s significance.

Further, the BJP has accused the BJD of halting state-level celebrations of Dr Mahatab's anniversary for the last two years. However, BJD functionaries denied these claims, stating that such commemorations never ceased.

On the other hand, speculations are rife over the potential introduction of new government schemes named after Dr Mahatab. This move is perceived as part of a broader effort to shift from a predominant focus on Biju Patnaik-centric programmes to acknowledge the contributions made by various leaders shaping Odisha's history.

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“Honouring the great persons is the culture and tradition of Odisha, not the culture of Tamil Nadu. They (BJD) should feel ashamed that the celebration of Dr Mahatab’s birth anniversary has been stopped for the last two years,” said senior BJP leader and Law Minister Prithiviraj Harichandan.

“What they (BJP) are saying has no relevance at all. Comparing the two legendary persons is so to say an underestimation of oneself,” senior BJD leader Debi Mishra expressed.

Notably, there has been an outpouring of support from Dr Mahatab's admirers, who have expressed contentment with the nationwide celebration. There is also a call for Dr Mahatab to be considered for Bharat Ratna, India's highest civilian honour.

Political analysts suggest that the BJP's focus on Dr Mahatab represents a strategic manoeuvre to bolster its regional identity in Odisha.