Odisha Chief Minister Claims File Disappearance is a Conspiracy

Bhubaneswar, India Jul 28, 2026 ALN: Bhubaneswar: The ongoing political landscape in Odisha has taken a dramatic turn with the recent claims made by Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi regarding the disappearance of crucial files linked to the murder of Swami Laxmanananda Saraswati. Majhi has characterized this incident not as an isolated case of negligence, but rather as a well-orchestrated conspiracy aimed at obscuring the truth surrounding a significant and controversial event in the state's history.

Swami Laxmanananda Saraswati, a prominent Hindu leader known for his efforts in promoting the Hindu faith and advocating for the rights of the indigenous people in Odisha, was assassinated in 2008. His murder sparked widespread riots and communal tensions across the state, leading to significant political and social ramifications. The investigation into his killing has been a contentious issue, with various political factions blaming each other for the unrest that followed. The claims of conspiracy made by Majhi suggest that the political fallout from this incident is far from resolved.

During a book launch event in Bhubaneswar, Chief Minister Majhi expressed his outrage over the missing report of the Justice Mahapatra and Justice AS Naidu Commission, which was tasked with investigating the circumstances surrounding the assassination of the spiritual leader. Majhi's assertion that these files were deliberately removed during the tenure of the previous Biju Janata Dal (BJD) government indicates a serious breach of protocol and accountability within the state's administration.

"The disappearance of the file relating to Laxmanananda Saraswati’s murder is no ordinary negligence. It was a well-planned and serious conspiracy, which our government is taking every step to expose," the Chief Minister claimed. His comments reflect a broader narrative in which political leaders often seek to attribute blame to their predecessors, especially when dealing with sensitive issues that resonate deeply with the public.

In response to the allegations of conspiracy and the missing files, the Odisha government has taken decisive steps to investigate the matter. Majhi announced that the Crime Branch has been assigned the responsibility of uncovering the circumstances surrounding the files' disappearance. This move is indicative of the government's commitment to transparency and accountability, particularly in a case that has significant implications for communal harmony and public trust in the state's institutions.

While addressing the media and the public, Majhi reiterated that no one involved in the alleged disappearance of the files would be spared. This uncompromising stance signals a determination to restore faith in the governance of Odisha, particularly among those who feel aggrieved by the handling of the Swami Laxmanananda case in the past. The Chief Minister's remarks also underscore the importance of thorough investigations in cases that can lead to communal strife, highlighting the delicate balance that political leaders must maintain in a diverse society.

Majhi's comments also touched upon the broader implications of the Swami's assassination and the subsequent investigation. He criticized the previous government for failing to provide adequate security to the spiritual leader and for not ensuring that justice was served to those responsible for his murder. This critique not only serves to position his government as a protector of religious figures but also seeks to galvanize public support by invoking a sense of justice and accountability.

Moreover, the Chief Minister emphasized the importance of respecting all religions and warned against any attempts to create divisions or disrespect Sanatan Dharma, which refers to the eternal principles of Hinduism. His assertion reflects a growing concern among political leaders regarding communal harmony in a state that has experienced significant religious tensions in the past. By promoting unity and harmony, Majhi aims to foster a sense of inclusivity among the diverse communities in Odisha, while simultaneously addressing the sensitivities surrounding religious sentiments.

In his address, Majhi assured the people of Odisha, stating, "I give a firm assurance to the four and a half crore people of Odisha that the truth will definitely be revealed. Our government will not spare anyone. The real faces of those who conspired and were involved in this murder will certainly be brought before the people of Odisha." Such statements are crucial in maintaining public trust, especially in a state where political accountability is often questioned.

As the investigation unfolds, the political implications of these developments are likely to be significant. The ruling party's commitment to exposing the truth could bolster its image and support among the electorate, particularly among those who view the Swami's assassination as a pivotal moment in Odisha's recent history. Conversely, if the investigation fails to yield satisfactory results or if it appears to be politically motivated, it could lead to further disillusionment among the public and opposition parties.

Majhi concluded his remarks by affirming that Swamiji’s sacrifice would not go in vain, emphasizing the government's commitment to honoring the memory, ideals, and dreams of the spiritual leader. This statement serves not only as a tribute to the late Swami but also as a rallying cry for his followers and supporters, reinforcing the notion that the current administration is dedicated to upholding the values and principles that he championed.

In summary, the disappearance of files related to the investigation of Swami Laxmanananda Saraswati's murder has ignited a firestorm of political discourse in Odisha. Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi's allegations of conspiracy and his government's commitment to uncovering the truth highlight the ongoing challenges of governance in a state marked by complex communal dynamics. The outcome of this investigation will likely have lasting implications for both the political landscape and communal relations in Odisha, making it a critical issue to watch in the coming months.