Dharmendra Pradhan's call to rename Ravenshaw University triggers controversy in Odisha

Bhubaneswar, Sept 1: Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan has sparked a political controversy in Odisha by suggesting that the historic Ravenshaw University in Cuttack should be renamed. This proposal has ignited a fierce debate between the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and the opposition Biju Janata Dal (BJD).

During an event in Cuttack, Pradhan questioned the legacy of Thomas Edward Ravenshaw, the British administrator after whom the university is named. He pointed out Ravenshaw's role during the catastrophic 1866 famine in Odisha, known as the Na’anka Durbhikya, which led to millions of deaths. Pradhan argued that it is inappropriate to honor a British official who was associated with such a tragic chapter in Odisha’s history.

In response, BJD spokesperson Lenin Mohanty criticized Pradhan's remarks, accusing him of attempting to erase an important part of Odisha’s educational history. Mohanty argued that Pradhan should have better understood the historical context before making such statements, emphasizing the significant contributions of Thomas Edward Ravenshaw to the development of higher education in the state.

On the other hand, BJP spokesperson Anil Biswal supported Pradhan's view, accusing the BJD of prioritizing the legacy of a British officer over Odia pride. Biswal claimed that Pradhan's suggestion was democratic and accused the BJD of hypocrisy for defending Ravenshaw while allegedly neglecting the university in the past.

Pradhan clarified that his suggestion to rename the 156-year-old institution was his personal opinion. He questioned Ravenshaw's actions during the 1866 famine, emphasizing the need for a reevaluation of the university’s name.