The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has chosen Mohan Charan Majhi as the new Chief Minister of Odisha following their victory in the state assembly elections, marking the end of Naveen Patnaik’s long tenure. Majhi, a four-time MLA from Keonjhar and a member of the Santhal tribe, is set to become only the third tribal leader to hold the chief ministerial office in Odisha’s history.
His selection underscores the BJP’s strategic move to strengthen its appeal among Odisha’s significant tribal population, constituting 23% of the state’s demographics. Majhi’s rise from a teacher at an RSS-run school to a prominent political figure highlights his journey, which began as a sarpanch and later evolved into key roles within the BJP’s Adivasi Morcha and as an MLA.
During his tenure, Majhi has advocated for tribal rights and infrastructure development in Keonjhar, often facing challenges such as housing issues and security threats. Despite a brief suspension in 2023 over a legislative incident, his political career has been largely free from controversy.
The BJP’s decision to appoint Majhi is seen as a continuation of its efforts to consolidate support among tribal communities, following similar appointments in Chhattisgarh and the election of President Droupadi Murmu, also from the Santhal community. Majhi’s close association with Union Minister Dharmendra Pradhan has further solidified his position within the party.
Looking ahead, Majhi is expected to play a crucial role in BJP’s electoral campaigns in neighboring states, reflecting the party’s broader strategy to enhance its tribal outreach across India. As he prepares to assume office, Majhi has expressed his commitment to upholding Odisha’s pride and addressing the concerns of marginalized communities under the BJP-led government’s agenda.
The appointment of two deputy chief ministers alongside Majhi signifies the BJP’s inclusive governance approach in Odisha, aiming to deliver on Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s promises and tackle local challenges effectively. With his swearing-in imminent, all eyes are on Majhi as he prepares to lead Odisha into a new political era under BJP’s leadership.
