Odisha governor-designate Braj Mohan Ram clarifies stance after remarks trigger BJD criticism

Odisha governor-designate Braj Mohan Ram has moved to quell a political controversy, clarifying that he will discharge his gubernatorial responsibilities impartially and abide strictly by the Constitution after comments he made about party organisation prompted criticism from the opposition Biju Janata Dal.

Ram, a three-time former parliamentarian from Palamu in Jharkhand who succeeds Haribabu Kambhampati as Odisha governor, stated that constitutional governance remains paramount. Speaking after his remarks drew sharp public debate, the incoming governor affirmed that he will serve the entire state above narrow political lines.

What sparked the controversy

The dispute began following an interview Ram gave in Ranchi after his appointment was announced. Reflecting on his decades in public life, the veteran leader praised the party leadership, including Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Union Home Minister Amit Shah, for recognising grassroots public service.

In those remarks, Ram had mentioned plans to assess the conditions of Scheduled Caste communities, resolve basic developmental needs, and support the Bharatiya Janata Party's Scheduled Caste wing in connecting with citizens. He contrasted his long loyalty with contemporary political opportunism, observing that he had remained dedicated to public service even when denied election tickets in the past.

Opposition leaders in Odisha seized upon the remarks. BJD president and Leader of the Opposition Naveen Patnaik addressed the matter on social media, writing that the people of Odisha were observing the nominee's stated enthusiasm for party work. Patnaik expressed hope that "Mahaprabhu Shri Jagannath will bestow upon him the zeal and strength to serve the people of Odisha, through which he will fulfil his duties impartially while upholding constitutional dignity."

BJD spokesperson Lenin Mohanty also criticised the initial statement, arguing that a gubernatorial role requires an entirely non-partisan approach.

Focus on welfare and constitutional norms

Ram promptly clarified his position, emphasising that his core priority as constitutional head will be the welfare of Odisha's poor and disadvantaged sections, rather than advancing any partisan agenda. He reiterated that upon taking the oath of office, a governor belongs to all citizens and functions within the framework set by the Constitution.

During his public career, Ram established a reputation for grassroots representation and welfare advocacy in Jharkhand. He stressed that his tenure in Lok Bhavan will concentrate on ensuring essential amenities, social justice, and institutional support reach vulnerable communities across Odisha.