Should Odisha Governor Act Against BJP MLA for Remarks on Gandhi and Women?
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Synopsis
A BJD delegation has approached the Odisha Governor, demanding action against BJP MLA Santosh Khatua for his disrespectful comments about Mahatma Gandhi and indecent behavior towards women. The situation raises significant questions about accountability in politics and the treatment of women.
Key Takeaways
- The BJD has called for action against BJP MLA Santosh Khatua.
- Allegations include disrespectful remarks about Gandhi and inappropriate behavior towards women.
- Governor Kambhampati has been urged to intervene and restore order in Malkangiri district.
Bhubaneswar, Dec 12 (NationPress) A group representing the opposition Biju Janata Dal (BJD) convened with Odisha's Governor, Hari Babu Kambhampati, on Friday, urging him to take action against BJP Nilagiri MLA Santosh Khatua for his controversial statements regarding Mahatma Gandhi during the recent Winter session of the state Assembly, along with his alleged inappropriate conduct towards women.
In a memorandum presented to the Governor, the BJD highlighted Khatua's purportedly objectionable comments directed at senior BJD member Lekha Samantsinghar.
Samantsinghar accused Khatua of verbally abusing her in front of the media on July 2, 2025, following her press conference addressing his involvement in a wildlife poaching scandal.
The BJD has escalated the matter to various forums, including the police and the State Commission for Women, seeking repercussions for Khatua's indecent remarks, but their efforts have yielded no results.
Additionally, the BJD has filed a complaint against Khatua with the Odisha Assembly Speaker, Surama Padhy, requesting that the issue be referred to the Ethics Committee.
“Regrettably, all previous actions have gone unheard as neither the State government, the Bharatiya Janata Party, the police, nor the women’s commissions have taken steps to investigate or address this matter,” stated Samantsinghar. “Khatua is being portrayed as a poster boy for the BJP, often seen alongside the Chief Minister, Deputy Chief Ministers, and BJP MPs at various events.”
The BJD accuses the police and administrative inaction of giving Khatua the confidence to make derogatory comments about Gandhi within the state Assembly on December 4.
“Given the circumstances and Khatua’s lack of remorse, I implore you to gather all relevant facts and remove MLA Khatua from the state Assembly. This would serve as an exemplary action for society and deter anyone who misuses their elected position,” appealed Samantsinghar to the Governor.
Furthermore, the BJD delegation called on Governor Kambhampati to intervene in restoring order in Malkangiri district, which has experienced extensive violence following the recent recovery of a 51-year-old tribal woman.
Point of View
I believe this situation encapsulates the critical need for accountability in politics. The allegations against MLA Khatua not only challenge the integrity of political discourse but also highlight the broader issue of how women are treated in political spaces. It is imperative that such conduct is addressed decisively to uphold the values of democracy and respect.
NationPress
12/12/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What were the controversial remarks made by MLA Santosh Khatua?
MLA Santosh Khatua made disrespectful comments about Mahatma Gandhi during the state assembly session, which drew significant criticism from the BJD.
What actions have been taken against Khatua?
The BJD has submitted a memorandum to the Governor, filed complaints with the police and the State Commission for Women, and petitioned the Assembly Speaker to refer the matter to the Ethics Committee.
How has the Odisha government responded to these allegations?
So far, there has been little to no action taken by the Odisha government, police, or women's commissions regarding the allegations against Khatua.
