Archive · 28 Jul 2026
Odisha Renames Medical College After Slain VHP Leader
The government of Odisha has decided to name a new medical college and hospital in Kandhamal district after Laxmanananda Saraswati, a VHP leader who was killed in 2008.
The Chief Minister, Mohan Charan Majhi, approved this decision to honor Saraswati's work for the tribal community.
The project includes building a 300-seat hostel and preserving Saraswati's memorial site.
The total funding for these initiatives is Rs 13 crore from the Chief Minister's Special Assistance fund.
However, Left parties oppose the move, arguing that it could revive communal tensions and that a tribal freedom fighter like Chakra Bisoyi would be a more fitting choice.
Odisha's government will name a medical college and hospital in Kandhamal after VHP leader Laxmanananda Saraswati.
Saraswati was assassinated in 2008, leading to widespread violence in the region.
Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi approved Rs 13 crore for the project, including a 300-seat hostel and memorial preservation.
The decision aims to honor Saraswati's service and sacrifice for the tribal people of Kandhamal.
Left parties oppose the move, arguing it could revive communal tensions and suggesting naming it after tribal freedom fighter Chakra Bisoyi instead.
- Who
- Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi, VHP leader Laxmanananda Saraswati, Left parties
- What
- Naming of a medical college and hospital after Laxmanananda Saraswati
- When
- July 27, 2024
- Where
- Kandhamal district, Odisha
- Why
- To honor Saraswati's service and sacrifice for the tribal people of the district
Supporters of Naming
Opponents of Naming
Recognition of Service
Supporters of Naming
The naming honors Laxmanananda Saraswati's service and sacrifice for the tribal people of Kandhamal.
Opponents of Naming
Naming a public institution after a controversial figure could be divisive and revive communal tensions.
Use of Public Funds
Supporters of Naming
Funds are allocated for infrastructure development and preservation of Saraswati's memorial.
Opponents of Naming
Public funds should not be used to promote any ideological or communal agenda.
Historical Significance
Supporters of Naming
Saraswati's contributions to tribal welfare and education are recognized.
Opponents of Naming
A tribal freedom fighter like Chakra Bisoyi would be a more fitting and unifying choice.
- Location
- Kandhamal district, Odisha
- Date of Incident
- August 23, 2008
- Funding for Medical College
- Rs 13 crore from CM’s Special Assistance fund
- Hostel Capacity
- 300 seats
- Investment in Hostel
- Rs 5 crore
- Investment in Memorial
- Rs 3 crore
- River Lift Project
- Rs 60 lakh
