Odisha Chief Minister Links Reservation Enhancement to Ambedkar's Legacy
Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi declared on Tuesday that the recent expansion of reservation quotas for Scheduled Castes (SCs) and Scheduled Tribes (STs) in medical and technical education reflects the BJP government's dedication to the principles of B.R. Ambedkar. Speaking at an event commemorating Ambedkar's birth anniversary at the BJP office in Bhubaneswar, Majhi emphasized that while previous administrations discussed social justice, they often avoided implementing proportional reservation measures.
Concrete Steps Toward Social Justice
"Our government has taken concrete steps," Majhi asserted, referencing the specific policy changes. Earlier this month, the state cabinet approved a significant revision to reservation percentages in admissions for medical and technical courses. The quota for STs was increased from 12% to 22.5%, and for SCs from 8% to 16.25%. Additionally, a new 11.25% reservation was introduced for Socially and Educationally Backward Classes (SEBCs), marking a comprehensive approach to inclusive education.
Majhi contrasted this proactive stance with what he described as the hesitation of earlier governments, suggesting that his administration is actively translating Ambedkar's vision into tangible policy outcomes. The move aims to address historical disparities and provide greater access to higher education for marginalized communities.
Announcement of Ambedkar Bhawan Construction
In a separate state-level program, the Chief Minister announced plans to construct an Ambedkar Bhawan at Kharavela Nagar in Bhubaneswar. The general administration department will prepare the detailed project report, he confirmed, indicating that the initiative is moving forward with official oversight. This development is intended to serve as a cultural and community center honoring Ambedkar's contributions to social reform.
Religious Observances in Keonjhar
Earlier in the day, Majhi visited the Maa Tarini temple in Ghatagaon, Keonjhar district, where he participated in the golden attire ritual of the deity during the Chaiti festival. He offered prayers and performed puja at the shrine under tight security arrangements. Rajendra Pattanayak, former president of the Maa Tarini Trust Board and a close aide of the CM, noted, "Majhi reached the temple around 10 am, performed the rituals, and returned to Bhubaneswar."
This blend of political announcements and religious engagements underscores the multifaceted nature of the Chief Minister's schedule, linking policy initiatives with cultural and spiritual observances in the state.
