New Delhi: Former Palamau MP Braj Mohan Ram has been appointed Governor of Odisha by President Droupadi Murmu as part of a wider gubernatorial reshuffle announced on October 12. The appointment marks a significant new chapter in the political career of the veteran BJP leader, who represented the Palamau Lok Sabha constituency three consecutive times in 1996, 1998 and 1999.
Ram began his legislative career in the undivided Bihar Assembly, serving from 1991 to 1995. Born in Chandwa in the Palamau region, he emerged as a prominent Dalit political figure during the BJP’s expansion in northern and eastern India. Following his parliamentary victories, he contested the 2009 Lok Sabha election from Palamau as an Independent but was unsuccessful. His appointment as Governor brings him back into the national spotlight after an extended period away from electoral politics.
His political journey spans the transformation of the Palamau region following the creation of Jharkhand in November 2000. Ram also served in party organisational roles, including leadership responsibilities within the Scheduled Caste Morcha. His elevation to a constitutional office represents a transition from electoral politics to a position requiring impartiality and adherence to constitutional principles.
Odisha, with its mineral wealth, industrial potential, tribal population and extensive rural landscape, faces significant developmental priorities in education, healthcare, employment and social inclusion. As Governor, Ram will serve as the constitutional head of the state, exercising his responsibilities in accordance with the Constitution and the established framework governing the relationship between the Governor and the elected government.
Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi congratulated Ram on his appointment and expressed confidence that his tenure would contribute to the state’s development. The appointment also carries a regional dimension, following former Jharkhand Chief Minister Raghubar Das’s tenure as Odisha Governor from October 2023 to December 2024.
For Ram, the assignment represents a return to a prominent public role after a prolonged absence from electoral prominence. His tenure will be closely associated with the discharge of constitutional responsibilities and the maintenance of institutional dignity. For the Palamau region, his elevation is a notable development, bringing a former parliamentarian from Jharkhand into a significant constitutional office in neighbouring Odisha.
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