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Draft:Swayam Prakash Mahapatra

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Swayam Prakash Mahapatra
Personal details
Born
Swayam Prakash Mahapatra

Chilika, Odisha, India
Political partyBiju Janata Dal
Residence(s)Khorda district, Odisha, India
ProfessionPolitician, journalist

Swayam Prakash Mahapatra is an Indian politician and former journalist from Odisha associated with the Biju Janata Dal (BJD). Known for his journalism career and public advocacy on cultural and political issues, Mahapatra is currently a spokesperson for the BJD. His transition from journalism to politics has garnered attention within Odisha’s media and political landscape.[1]

Early Career and Journalism

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Mahapatra began his career in journalism, eventually earning recognition as a senior journalist and news anchor. His work focused on socio-political issues within Odisha, and he became an influential voice in state media, noted for his analytical approach to regional governance matters.[2]

Political Career

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Mahapatra joined the Biju Janata Dal (BJD) in 2024, drawn by Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik’s leadership and governance principles. His entry into politics was publicly announced by senior BJD officials, including Manas Mangaraj, during a formal event.[3] Subsequently, he was appointed as a BJD spokesperson, a position that involves representing the party's views on various issues, including inter-party disputes and cultural matters.[4]

Advocacy for Cultural Heritage

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In April 2024, Mahapatra participated in a “lungi protest,” alongside BJD national spokesperson Sasmit Patra, to defend Odisha’s cultural heritage. This protest came in response to statements by Union Minister Dharmendra Pradhan perceived as disparaging toward Odisha’s Sambalpuri lungi, a traditional attire.[5] Mahapatra condemned Pradhan’s remarks, highlighting the cultural and economic significance of the Sambalpuri fabric industry to local weavers and Odisha’s identity.[6]

Public Statements and Controversies

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As a spokesperson, Mahapatra has been vocal on key political issues, often addressing the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP)’s activities in Odisha. In 2024, he publicly criticized the BJP for allegedly attempting to "poach" BJD leaders, a claim that stirred political debate within the state.[7] His outspoken approach and defense of regional interests have earned him both support and criticism, solidifying his reputation as a prominent advocate of Odisha’s cultural values.

References

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  1. ^ "State Level Accredited Journalists" (PDF). Information & Public Relations Department, Government of Odisha. December 2020.
  2. ^ "Journalists Accredited by Government of Odisha" (PDF). Information & Public Relations Department, Government of Odisha. March 2020.
  3. ^ "Journalist Swayam Prakash Mahapatra Joins BJD". Pragativadi. April 23, 2024.
  4. ^ "Odisha Elections 2024: BJP Searching for Assembly Candidates at Bus Stands, Railway Platforms, Claims BJD". Odisha Bytes. October 2024.
  5. ^ "Patnaik Dissolves All State-Level Office Bearers of BJD, Appoints New Spokespersons". Times of India. April 24, 2024.
  6. ^ "Odisha Election 2024: BJD, BJP in Lungi War Over Naveen Campaign Video". The New Indian Express. April 24, 2024.
  7. ^ "BJD Accuses BJP of Poaching Leaders to Avoid Leadership Crisis". The E-News Insight. April 24, 2024.