Bhubaneswar, (Reporterspen), Sept 5: The suggestion to rename Ravenshaw University sparked intense debate in the Odisha Assembly on Thursday, with members of the ruling BJP clashing with opposition BJD and Congress. During Zero Hour, Biju Janata Dal (BJD) MLA Byomakesh Roy demanded clarification from the government regarding the name change proposal made by Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan. He noted that both the Deputy Chief Minister and the state Education Minister have supported Pradhan’s suggestion.
Roy highlighted that Ravenshaw University, established 156 years ago, has been a cornerstone of education in Odisha. He noted that T.E. Ravenshaw, who led the institution before the 1866 famine, played a significant role in promoting education in the state. However, Roy emphasized the importance of promoting the Odia language and its use in schools over Bengali.
He also claimed that the Union Minister’s statement has caused unrest among students and called for a statement from the Chief Minister on the matter.
In response, BJP MLA Tankadhar Tripathy argued that the people of Odisha have largely accepted the Union Minister’s suggestion, asserting that opposition comes mainly from those disconnected from local sentiments. He questioned why any institution in the state should be named after a British figure when there are numerous renowned leaders and personalities who have significantly contributed to Odisha’s culture and language.
