Story perspectives

Ram’s BJP strengthening pledge sparks Odisha governor controversy

By Drooid · Oct 15, 2026, 4:12 AM UTC · How we work

Summary

Odisha Governor Appointment Controversy

Governor-designate Braj Mohan Ram said he will work to strengthen the BJP in Odisha, sparking controversy.
BJD leader Naveen Patnaik and spokesperson Lenin Mohanty condemned the remark and urged constitutional impartiality.
Congress OPCC president Bhakta Charan Das demanded the Centre recall Ram, saying his comments betray constitutional duty.
President Droupadi Murmu appointed Ram as Odisha governor on October 13, 2026.

Summary

Majhi Restarts Elections

Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi resumed student-union elections after a two-year promise, ending a halt since 2017.
6,649 students are contesting the elections across 347 colleges and 13 state universities.
Violence erupted on campuses, and BJD MLA Arun Kumar Sahoo was recorded confronting police at a women’s college.
ABVP of BJP won several races unopposed, leading BJD leaders to allege cancellations in over 200 colleges.

History

Historical Context

India’s governors are appointed by the President on the centre’s advice, a practice that changes with each government and has sparked political fights. The Supreme Court ordered term security, yet the 2013 INR3,600-crore helicopter scandal saw governor M.K. Narayanan become the first ever questioned by police. The 2026 appointment of Braj Mohan Ram as Odisha governor has revived similar tensions, angering chief minister Naveen Patnaik.

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Odisha Governor Appointment Controversy

Governor-designate Braj Mohan Ram said he will work to strengthen the BJP in Odisha, sparking controversy.
BJD leader Naveen Patnaik and spokesperson Lenin Mohanty condemned the remark and urged constitutional impartiality.
Congress OPCC president Bhakta Charan Das demanded the Centre recall Ram, saying his comments betray constitutional duty.
President Droupadi Murmu appointed Ram as Odisha governor on October 13, 2026.

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