Bhubaneswar: A life-size statue of Odisha’s first woman MLA and eminent freedom fighter Sarala Devi was unveiled at the Odisha Legislative Assembly on Sunday, with Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi recalling her contribution to the freedom struggle, women’s empowerment and social reform.
Majhi unveiled the statue at the Assembly premises and paid tribute to Sarala Devi, describing her as a symbol of women’s empowerment and the social and political awakening of Odisha.
“A life-size statue of Sarala Devi, a symbol of women’s empowerment and social and political awakening in Odisha, has been dedicated to the people today,” Majhi said.
He said Sarala Devi was not only the first woman legislator of Odisha but also made significant contributions to the freedom movement and the cause of women’s rights.
“Her contribution to the freedom struggle and women’s rights was unparalleled. She led the freedom struggle in Odisha at the call of Mahatma Gandhi,” the Chief Minister said.
Majhi also highlighted Sarala Devi’s work as a legislator, particularly her efforts towards women’s education and social security.
“The sacrifice and spirit of service of a great revolutionary like Sarala Devi have always inspired us to serve the people with dedication,” he said.
Sarala Devi played a significant role in Odisha’s freedom movement and worked for social reforms and women’s empowerment. Her political journey marked an important milestone in the participation of women in public life in the state.
Speaker Surama Padhy, Deputy Chief Minister Kanak Vardhan Singh Deo, Deputy Chief Minister Pravati Parida, State Government Chief Whip Saroj Kumar Pradhan, Ekamra Bhubaneswar MLA Babu Singh and Mahakalapada MLA Durga Prasad Nayak were among those present at the event.
Senior journalist Pradyumna Satapathy, Odisha Legislative Assembly Secretary Satyabrata Rout, Culture Department Secretary Dr Bijay Ketan Upadhyaya and Deputy Director Devjani Bhuyan also attended the programme.
Several intellectuals and social workers were present on the occasion and paid their respects to Sarala Devi, remembering her contribution to Odisha’s political and social history.
