By Sarat Paikray
Odisha Politics: As discussions intensify around the impending expansion and reshuffle of the Odisha Cabinet, a new development has stirred the state’s political landscape. The spotlight is now on a series of unexpected high-profile meetings involving Cabinet Minister Prithviraj Harichandan.
Earlier today, former minister and industrialist Dilip Ray met with Prithviraj Harichandan at his official residence. Though Mr Dilip not actively involved in current BJP politics, but remains an influential figure in Delhi’s political and bureaucratic circles. The meeting lasted for a considerable duration, but the agenda remains undisclosed, fueling widespread speculation in political circles.
However, what has truly raised eyebrows is what transpired the previous day. In a rare and unprecedented move, Odisha Governor Hari Babu Kumbhampati visited Minister Harichandan at his government residence—an act that is considered a serious deviation from established protocol. Traditionally, it is the ministers who visit the Raj Bhavan, not the other way around. The Governor’s decision to visit the residence of a cabinet minister directly has sparked numerous constitutional and political questions.
Notably, there was no major celebration or personal occasion at the Minister’s residence to justify such a visit. Further more, Prithviraj’s father, former Governor Biswabhusan Harichandan, resides in Nayapalli, not at the minister’s government residence, eliminating the possibility that the Governor was visiting him instead.
Speaking to the media, Minister Harichandan revealed that the Governor had come to discuss the functioning of his departments—Works, Law, and Excise—and had offered some suggestions. Yet, observers find it unusual that such discussions were not held at the Raj Bhavan, raising concerns over procedural propriety.
While neither the Raj Bhavan nor the Minister has issued further clarifications, political observers are questioning the motivation behind such a high-level visit. It is widely believed that a Governor would not make such a move without prior instructions from the Centre. Speculation is rife that the Governor may have carried a confidential message from Delhi—possibly from Prime Minister Narendra Modi himself.
As cabinet reshuffle talks gather pace, the Governor’s visit is being interpreted by many as a sign of something bigger in the offing. Political analysts are now asking: Is Prime Minister Modi preparing a major elevation or special role for Prithviraj Harichandan in the days ahead?
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