The Odisha government’s decision to rename the Biju Patnaik Sports Award as ‘Odisha Rajya Krida Samman’ faced significant backlash. Due to widespread criticism, the government, led by Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi, decided to maintain the original name. This article delves into the controversy, the government’s initial decision, and the subsequent retraction.
Background
The Biju Patnaik Sports Award, named after the former Chief Minister of Odisha, has been a prestigious recognition in the state. The award celebrates excellence in various sports categories. However, on a recent Friday, the newly-elected BJP government issued guidelines to rename the award, sparking controversy and public outcry.
The Announcement and Immediate Reaction
On Friday, the Odisha Sports and Youth Services Department announced that the Biju Patnaik Sports Award would be renamed ‘Odisha Rajya Krida Samman.’ The guidelines specified that the award would honor athletes in eight categories annually. Despite the unchanged cash rewards, the name change provoked immediate backlash from various quarters, particularly from the Biju Janata Dal (BJD).
Criticism from BJD
Senior BJD MLA Arun Sahoo voiced strong opposition, stating that Biju Patnaik was not just an individual but an institution. He highlighted Patnaik’s contributions and the honors he received from three different countries. Sahoo questioned the motive behind removing Patnaik’s name from the sports award, suggesting it disrespected the legacy of a national asset.
Government’s Response and Retraction
In response to the criticism, Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi announced on Sunday that the government had no plans to change the award’s name. He affirmed the award would continue as the Biju Patnaik Sports Award, respecting the legacy of Biju Patnaik. Majhi acknowledged Patnaik’s significant contributions to the state and the country, asserting that the government respects the sons of the soil.
Details of the Sports Award
The guidelines for the renamed award included cash prizes for various categories:
- Lifetime Achievement Award: ₹3 lakh
- Outstanding Performance in Sports: ₹2 lakh
- Excellence in Coaching: ₹1 lakh
- Best Contribution to Sports Promotion: ₹1 lakh
- Excellence in Sports Journalism: ₹1 lakh
- Para-Sportsperson of the Year: ₹1 lakh
- Upcoming Athlete of the Year (Junior Category): ₹1 lakh
- Sports Technical Official/Support Staff of the Year: ₹1 lakh
If awarded posthumously, the next of kin would receive the cash prize.
Political Implications
The controversy over the renaming decision highlights the political dynamics in Odisha. The BJP, now in power, has expressed intentions to rename several popular schemes initiated by the previous BJD administration. These include the LAaccMI rural bus service, Mo Bus city service, and Aahaar meal scheme. The BJD’s strong reaction underscores the importance of Biju Patnaik’s legacy in Odisha’s political and cultural landscape.
The Odisha government’s decision to rename the Biju Patnaik Sports Award and the subsequent retraction following criticism illustrates the deep respect for Biju Patnaik’s legacy. The controversy underscores the political sensitivities surrounding changes to established honors and the influence of public opinion in such decisions. The Biju Patnaik Sports Award remains a significant symbol of excellence in sports in Odisha, retaining its original name as a tribute to a revered leader.
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