Bhubaneswar, 3 December (H.S.)

Bhubaneswar, December 3 — The issue of the Odisha government allegedly failing to properly observe the 125th birth anniversary of prominent freedom fighter Maa Rama Devi was strongly raised in the State Assembly during Zero Hour on Tuesday. Deputy Leader of Opposition Prasanna Acharya, Chief Whip Pramila Malik and other BJD legislators expressed deep concern over what they termed the government’s indifference toward freedom fighters and historical icons.

Raising the matter immediately after Question Hour, Acharya said that despite today marking Maa Rama Devi’s 125th birth anniversary, the government had “completely overlooked” the occasion. He reminded the House that during the birth anniversary of freedom fighter Harekrushna Mahatab, the Chief Minister had publicly assured that Maa Rama Devi’s anniversary would be celebrated throughout the year. “However, that commitment has not been honoured,” he said.

Acharya alleged that it was being speculated that the government refrained from marking the occasion because Maa Rama Devi was associated with the Congress movement. “If that is the reason, I cannot accept it,” he remarked, adding, “If we forget our history, we cannot move forward.”

He further pointed out that the government had also ignored the 125th birth anniversary celebrations of tribal freedom fighter Laxman Naik, whose commemorative events are supposed to continue throughout the year. Similarly, the birth anniversary of Parvati Giri, coming up in January, must also be observed with due respect, he said.

Acharya also questioned the government’s decision to hold Maa Rama Devi’s anniversary event at the Kalinga Stadium on Tuesday evening. He asked why culturally appropriate venues such as Jayadev Bhawan or Rabindra Mandap were not chosen instead.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Monalisa Panda