The CPI Adivasi Sangh, an outfit claiming to be the tribal wing of CPI (Maoist), has put up a banner in Rayagada district opposing dismissal of Damodar Rout from the Ministry and terming him as a “favourite leader” of tribals.
It has been mentioned in the banner that as many as 400 tribals were present at the function where Rout made remarks on Brahmins. The banner claimed that Rout has not commented anything against the Brahmins.
The Sangh’s banner has raised question as to why Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik hasn’t sacked the MlAs accused in the chit fund scam.
Demanding action against these MlAs and expressing respect for Damodar Rout, the outfit has warned to launch agitation if the Government fails to fulfil their demands.
On being informed, police reached the spot and seized the banner.
Notably, Rout was sacked from the Cabinet for his alleged casteist “beggar” remark against Brahmins at a recent public function in Malkangiri. He had stated that Adivasis, despite being poor, never stretch their arms for alms while Brahmins do so. The Chief Minister dismissed him for his “casteist” remark.
Rout was often in the news for his controversial remarks against some communities and groups including women Anganwadi Workers, the last being against Brahmins.
He in his speech at the Malyabanta Mahotsav in Malkangiri, while drawing a comparison, had said that Adivasis never beg even in any adverse situation while Brahmins beg for alms if the situation so demands.
The remark had sparked severe resentment among the Brahmins, who have been demanding an apology from Rout and his removal from the BJD.
Rout, after his sacking from the Ministry and the party’s organisational posts, have been refraining from public appearance.