The Rajya Yuba Sammukhya Samiti (RYSS) submitted a memorandum to Prime Minister Narendra Modi through the Governor on Thursday demanding Bharat Ratna for Utkal Keshari Dr Harekrushna Mahtab.
Though former Chief Minister Mahtab is a noble figure and participated in the movement against untouchability and imprisoned in Ahammad Nagar Palace, he is yet to receive the Ratna award, said RYSS secretary Abhaya Badajena.
“Since Chiefministership of former Chief Minister Janaki Ballav Patnaik, we have been demanding Country’s highest civilian award to Mahtab, but the State Government has ignored him,” he added.
Advocating Ratna for Mahtab, RYSS members said Mahtab should be given the Bharat Ratna, as he has contributed much more to the State’s development compared to others. Former MlA Ajay Jena, Pitambar Jena and Nrusingha Charan Mohapatra were present, among others.