BJP MLA Slams Naveen Patnaik Over Ravenshaw University Name Change Proposal

GG News Bureau
Bhubaneswar, 11th Sept. BJP MLA Jaynarayan Mishra sharply slammed former Odisha Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik over his remarks on the proposal to rename Ravenshaw University. Mishra accused Patnaik of lacking an understanding of Odia “asmita” (pride) and alleged that the BJD (Biju Janata Dal) was attempting to distort Odisha’s history.

Patnaik had previously claimed that there were efforts to “distort” history related to the university name change controversy. In response, Mishra took to social media, asserting, “@Naveen_Odisha… the people of Odisha have recognized your actions over the last 25 years and rejected your government. Your administration demolished important cultural sites like Puri mutts, ancient temples, and Raghunandan Library.”

Mishra also alleged that BJD leaders were engaged in historical revisionism and that the people of Odisha had responded with a “befitting reply” at the polls. He emphasized that the current BJP-led government, which he referred to as the “double-engine” government due to BJP’s control at both the Centre and the state, was committed to correcting historical narratives.

Patnaik had previously defended his position on social media, arguing that respecting the contributions of great men and maintaining institutional excellence was vital, and criticized the idea of renaming the university as an attempt to undermine historical achievements.

The debate over the university’s name, proposed by Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan, has sparked significant political contention, with the BJP advocating for the change due to the institution’s “colonial name.” Patnaik has countered this by highlighting the historical and cultural contributions of figures like Vyaskabi Fakirmohan Senapati and the Mayurbhanj royal family, condemning any attempts to rewrite their legacy.