Raghubar Das Resigns as Odisha Governor Amid Speculations of Political Comeback in Jharkhand

Raghubar Das, former Chief Minister of Jharkhand, has resigned as the Governor of Odisha, citing personal reasons. His decision, confirmed through a Raj Bhavan press release, comes 13 months after his appointment.

Das’s resignation has triggered speculation about his return to active politics in Jharkhand, where the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) faced a significant defeat in the last Assembly elections.

BJP to Decide Das’s Future Role

Das has not confirmed his next steps but stated that the BJP will determine his future role. Many political observers anticipate his return to Jharkhand’s political landscape, where the BJP may seek a strategy overhaul following its electoral loss.

Allegations Resurface: BJD Criticizes Das

As Das concluded his gubernatorial tenure, the Opposition Biju Janata Dal (BJD) raised questions about an unresolved allegation involving his son.

The controversy centers around an alleged assault on an assistant section officer (ASO) at the Raj Bhavan in Puri on July 7.

BJD spokesperson Lenin Mohanty questioned whether justice would now be served, accusing the BJP government of shielding Das’s son.

“The Centre has removed Das as Governor, but it remains to be seen if the BJP keeps its word to prove no one is above the law,” Mohanty said.

He pointed out that the state government had ordered an investigation into the incident, to be conducted by the Puri district collector, with a report promised within 15 days. However, no significant progress has been reported since then.

Reflections on Tenure in Odisha

Despite the controversy, Das described his time in Odisha as memorable. He expressed gratitude toward the people of the state and optimism about Odisha’s future.

“I hope Odisha becomes a developed state by 2036, marking 100 years of its formation,” Das remarked during his farewell.

Hari Babu Kambhampati Appointed as Odisha’s New Governor

President Droupadi Murmu has accepted Raghubar Das’s resignation and appointed Mizoram Governor Hari Babu Kambhampati as his successor.

This transition is part of a broader reshuffle, with new governors also named for states like Mizoram, Kerala, and Bihar. The Rashtrapati Bhavan confirmed that the appointments would take effect once the new governors assume office.

Kambhampati’s Impressive Credentials

Hari Babu Kambhampati, a seasoned politician with an extensive academic background, is set to take over as the Governor of Odisha. He hails from Timmasamudram Village in Andhra Pradesh and is the first Telugu politician to serve as Mizoram’s Governor.

Born on June 15, 1953, Kambhampati holds a PhD in Control Systems from Andhra University, where he also completed his undergraduate and postgraduate studies in engineering.

Before entering politics, he served as an Associate Professor for 24 years at Andhra University Engineering College.

Kambhampati’s political journey began during the Emergency period of 1974-75, when he actively participated in the Lok Sangharsh Samiti movement under Loknayak Jaya Prakash Narayan.

He was imprisoned for six months under the Maintenance of Internal Security Act (MISA). Later, he served as a state executive member of the Janata Party in Andhra Pradesh.

Broader Changes in Governorship

Alongside Kambhampati’s appointment, several other states witnessed changes in governorship. General (Dr.) Vijay Kumar Singh has been named Governor of Mizoram, replacing Kambhampati.

In Kerala, Rajendra Vishwanath Arlekar succeeds Arif Mohammed Khan, who takes over as Governor of Bihar.

Political Implications of Das’s Resignation

Das’s departure has stirred political debates, especially concerning the unresolved allegations against his son. The BJD continues to demand accountability, emphasizing the importance of impartial justice.

Meanwhile, the BJP faces questions about whether it will address the controversy or focus on re-integrating Das into its political framework in Jharkhand.

With the BJP strategizing for a comeback in Jharkhand and the Opposition spotlighting unresolved issues, Das’s resignation marks a pivotal moment in the political landscape of both Odisha and his home state.