Rama Devi’s legacy sparks debate in Odisha Assembly during Zero Hour

A discussion on the legacy of eminent freedom fighter and social reformer Rama Devi dominated the Zero Hour proceedings in the Odisha Legislative Assembly on Wednesday.

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BJD MLA Arun Sahoo urged the State government to take concrete steps to uphold Odia Asmita (Odia pride) by giving due respect to all freedom fighters. He also appealed to the Speaker to direct the government to ensure proper recognition for their contributions.

Chief Whip of the Opposition BJD, Pramila Mallik, expressed strong concern, alleging that the State government has forgotten Rama Devi’s immense contribution.

BJD’s Mallik pointed out that her photograph was missing from several places where it should have been displayed. Mallik reminded the House that the Chief Minister had earlier promised to celebrate Rama Devi’s birth anniversary throughout the year and questioned why the commitment was not being honoured.

“Rama Devi had plunged into the freedom movement, and she had been lodged in jail during those days. She had also worked with Gandhiji. She had made immense contributions for achieving freedom for the country. The current government is not recalling her sacrifices. On her birth anniversary today, not a single poster or hoarding has been put up anywhere. She was the pride and source of inspiration for women,” BJD’s Mallik said.

BJP MLA Irasis Acharya also presented his views, clarifying that the government has planned extensive celebrations. He said Rama Devi’s birth anniversary would be marked with events at multiple venues, including an evening programme at Kalinga Stadium.

Acharya added that books highlighting her sacrifices would be distributed and that photo exhibitions and theatrical performances portraying her life would also be organised.

“It is necessary that our future generations must know the sacrifices made by our freedom fighters including Rama Devi. Accordingly, year-long programmes will be conducted to pay tribute to the great lady,” the BJP MLA expressed.

Reported By: Jagdish Das, Swati Jena