Mohan Charan Majhi, a tribal leader and four-time MLA from the BJP, has been chosen as the new Chief Minister of Odisha, marking a historic shift as BJP takes power in the state for the first time. The announcement was made by Union Minister Rajnath Singh following a BJP legislature party meeting.

Alongside Majhi, Kanak Vardhan Singh Deo, a six-time legislator, and Pravati Parida, a debutant MLA, have been appointed as deputy chief ministers. This decision underscores BJP’s strategy to maintain regional balance in Odisha’s governance.

Majhi, aged 52, hails from Keonjhar district, known for its tribal population and mineral wealth. He succeeds Naveen Patnaik of the BJD, ending the party’s 24-year tenure in power. Majhi’s selection as CM reflects BJP’s focus on promoting young and dynamic leadership to drive the state towards progress and prosperity.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi and senior BJP leaders are expected to attend the swearing-in ceremony scheduled for Wednesday at Janata Maidan. The BJP secured 78 seats in the 147-member Odisha Assembly, securing a clear mandate over the incumbent BJD, which won 51 seats.

Majhi’s elevation makes him the third tribal Chief Minister of Odisha, following in the footsteps of Hemananda Biswal and Giridhar Gamang. His political journey began as a village sarpanch and has spanned nearly three decades, highlighting his grassroots connect and leadership acumen.

Pravati Parida’s appointment as deputy CM marks a significant milestone as she becomes Odisha’s first woman to hold this position. Kanak Vardhan Singh Deo, representing the erstwhile royal family of Patnagarh (now Bolangir), brings extensive legislative experience to the deputy CM role.

The BJP’s victory in Odisha marks a pivotal moment in state politics, signaling a shift in power dynamics and setting the stage for new governance priorities under Chief Minister Mohan Majhi’s leadership.