Bhubaneswar, Sept 5: A heated debate unfolded in the Odisha Assembly on Thursday, pitting the ruling BJP against the opposition BJD and Congress over the proposed renaming of Ravenshaw University. The controversy escalated after Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan made a recent statement on the issue.

During Zero Hour, BJD MLA Byomakesh Ray expressed concern, urging Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi to clarify the government's position. Ray emphasized the growing unrest among students regarding the potential name change and highlighted Ravenshaw University’s 156-year history, particularly its role in advancing modern education and promoting the Odia language in schools.

Congress leader Sofia Firdous supported Ray, acknowledging Ravenshaw University's significant contribution to Odisha's intellectual heritage. She called on the government to address the concerns of students and alumni, warning that a name change could provoke further protests.

Outside the Assembly, Ray reiterated the need for clarity from Chief Minister Majhi, stressing that the renaming issue could distract from more pressing matters related to the university.

BJP MLA Irasis Acharya, however, dismissed the opposition's concerns, accusing them of being influenced by external forces. He criticized Ravenshaw's historical record, particularly during the 1866 famine, and argued that Minister Pradhan's comments should be seen as a personal opinion rather than an official proposal.

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