BJD Criticises Raghubar Das as Controversial Governor, Demands Explanation for His Removal

The BJD has raised concerns about former Odisha governor Raghubar Das, labelling him a controversial figure. They demanded clarity on his early removal from office. This follows Das's recent return to the BJP in Jharkhand. During his induction, Das claimed he actively engaged with the public as governor, visiting 30 districts in three months. "I have broken the myth that the governor’s post is laat sahib," Das stated.

Allegations Against Das

At a press conference, BJD's Arun Kumar Sahoo accused Das of acting as a BJP agent while serving as governor. Sahoo questioned Das's popularity and asked why he was removed if he was indeed well-liked. He also criticised Das's comment about governors not being "laat sahib," suggesting it implied other governors might be.

Sahoo further questioned why no action was taken against Das's son, who allegedly assaulted a government employee. "Can any ordinary person go scot-free after assaulting an on-duty government employee?" Sahoo asked. The BJD reiterated their demand for punishment for Das's son, accusing him of taking the law into his own hands.

Political Accusations

The BJD also accused Das of politicising the Raj Bhavan by using it as a political party office. They alleged that he campaigned for the BJP across the state just before the general elections, despite holding a constitutional position. These actions, according to the BJD, undermined the dignity of the Raj Bhavan.

The BJP dismissed these allegations, asserting that Das was popular among Odisha's people because he addressed their grievances directly. BJP MLA Saroj Padhy claimed that while Das reached out to villagers, Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik remained confined to Bhubaneswar. This outreach by Das, they argued, was opposed by the BJD.

Congress Criticism

The Congress party also criticised Das's tenure as governor. Former minister Panchanan Kanungo noted that Odisha's law and order situation deteriorated when police failed to act against Das's son. Kanungo suggested that Das should have resigned immediately after his son's alleged assault on a government employee.

The debate over Raghubar Das’s tenure as governor continues to stir political tensions in Odisha. Both opposition parties and the BJP present differing views on his impact and actions during his time in office.