Odisha Chief Minister Shares Humbling Experience with Police
During the inauguration of a two-day Collector’s Conference at Lok Seva Bhawan, Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi recounted a personal experience from just a month before he took office. This incident, which involved a tense exchange with a police inspector, highlights the challenges faced by public officials and emphasizes the importance of respectful interactions in governance.
Background of the Incident
The narrative began with protests from residents of Raisuan and Gopinathpur panchayats in Keonjhar constituency, who blocked National Highway 20 on May 2 due to a severe drinking water crisis. This took place during the assembly elections in Odisha, a time when the Model Code of Conduct was strictly enforced.
A Confrontation with Authority
Recalling the incident, Majhi stated that the inspector confronted him about his presence at the police station, insisting that he “get out” or risk arrest. “The inspector questioned my presence, stating that the Model Code of Conduct was in force,” Majhi noted. In response, he posed a valid question: “Can’t an MLA, who is also a candidate, visit a police station to address the concerns of constituents?” This confrontation not only reflects the tension of the electoral period but also the sometimes rigid enforcement of rules that can undermine communication between elected officials and law enforcement.
Majhi’s Response and Call for Accountability
Feeling disrespected, Majhi chose to stage a protest outside the police station, calling for accountability from the inspector. He stressed the necessity for police officers to maintain a respectful demeanor toward citizens who come for help. Majhi commented, “With the blessings of Lord Jagannath, I became the Chief Minister. I can only imagine the condition of the inspector after that; I forgave him, considering he acted under pressure.”
Promoting Respect and Accountability
In his address, Majhi highlighted the importance of taking public complaints seriously and urged senior officials to respond appropriately. He emphasized that the interactions between citizens and law enforcement are critical and should be conducted with dignity and respect.
Lessons from Past Incidents
In reinforcing his message, Majhi recounted another significant incident involving President Draupadi Murmu. He revealed that two decades ago, while serving as a minister, she faced insult from a district collector. The collector had welcomed a visiting Union Minister while failing to acknowledge Murmu, showcasing a similar lack of respect that should be rectified in government practices.
Conclusion: A Call for Change
Majhi’s experiences underline the need for a cultural shift within government institutions, advocating for a model of interaction characterized by respect and accountability. His reflections during the conference serve as a reminder of the vital role that dignity plays in public service, and his call for change aims to foster a more approachable and responsible governance structure.
