Mohan Charan Majhi has been chosen as the BJP's first Chief Minister of Odisha. A firebrand tribal leader and four-time MLA, Majhi has represented the Keonjhar Assembly seat since 2019, winning it again in the 2024 elections by a margin of 11,000 votes.
### Background and Career
Majhi started his career as a teacher at Saraswati Shishu Vidya Mandir, a school run by the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS). He began his political journey as a village council chief (sarpanch) and has since become a prominent figure in Odisha politics.
### Political Achievements
- **Tribal Leader**: Majhi is recognized for his strong connection with the tribal communities in Odisha, particularly in the mineral-rich Kendujhar district.
- **BJP Leadership**: Known for his organizational skills and loyalty to the BJP, Majhi has played a crucial role in the party's election strategies. He has also served as the Chief Whip of the BJP Legislative Party.
- **Legislative Performance**: Majhi is noted for his effective performance in the Odisha Assembly, where he has been an advocate for various issues, including corruption and development.
### Personal Traits
- **Non-controversial Figure**: Majhi is regarded as a non-controversial and dedicated leader, with a humble background and a strong RSS affiliation.
- **Protests and Activism**: In 2023, he made headlines for throwing uncooked dal at the Speaker's podium in the Assembly to protest a purported Rs 700-crore scam in the purchase of pulses for the mid-day meal scheme.
### Vision and Promises
After his selection as Chief Minister, Majhi expressed gratitude to Lord Jagannath and the people of Odisha, pledging to honor their trust and lead the state towards progress. He emphasized his commitment to addressing the needs of the people and bringing about change in Odisha.
Majhi faces the significant task of following Naveen Patnaik, who led the state for 24 years and aims to leverage his deep understanding of Odisha's governance system to guide the state forward.
