New Odisha Governor Brajmohan Ram Faces Questions Over Neutrality After Remarks

Newly appointed Odisha Governor Brajmohan Ram has sparked a political controversy by stating he will work to secure more votes for the BJP. Opposition parties, including the Biju Janata Dal and the Congress, have questioned his impartiality following the remarks.

Background

Speaking to a news agency in Ranchi, the Jharkhand leader said he would help activate the BJP's Scheduled Caste Morcha and praised political loyalty. State BJP general secretary Amar Bauri defended the appointment, stating that Ram spoke as a party worker and his conduct should be judged after he takes office. Bauri also highlighted Ram's journey from a Dalit family in Palamu to a constitutional post.

Political Career

Born on January 1, 1958, in Chandwa, Ram became the BJP's block president in 1990. He served as a Bihar MLA from 1991 to 1995 and won the Palamu Lok Sabha seat in 1996, 1998, and 1999. His eldest son Anil Kumar noted that the family had no prior political background. Ram faced setbacks later, including missing out on tickets and surviving a 2014 road accident that killed three people.

Context

The office of the Governor is meant to remain politically neutral, leading to frequent friction when appointees make overtly partisan statements. Governors hold high constitutional authority in states, operating independently of active party politics once sworn into office.