The death anniversary of the controversial Vishwa Hindu Parishad (VHP) leader Swami Laxmanananda Saraswati was observed peacefully on August 26 in Kandhamal district, Odisha, despite earlier concerns of potential unrest. The commemoration, coinciding with the Hindu festival of Janmashtami, proceeded without incident under heightened security measures.
Balliguda sub-collector Reena Pradhan confirmed, "The death anniversary of the VHP leader was observed peacefully at the ashrams founded by him in Chakapada and Jalespata. There were no reports of any untoward incidents."
The district administration had implemented robust security arrangements in anticipation of the event. Armed personnel were stationed at vulnerable locations throughout Kandhamal to maintain law and order. This proactive approach came in response to circulating rumours and social media posts that had raised concerns about potential unrest in the days leading up to the anniversary.
Kandhamal Superintendent of Police Suvendu Patra had earlier stated that peace committee meetings were held at each police station, bringing together diverse stakeholders including religious leaders, local authorities, and political representatives. These meetings aimed to foster communal harmony and address any emerging issues.
The peaceful observance stands in stark contrast to the tragic events of 23 August 2008, when Swami Saraswati and four associates were killed by Maoists, who later claimed responsibility. Despite this, right-wing Hindu groups blamed Christians for the murders, igniting widespread anti-Christian violence in Kandhamal. The aftermath was devastating with over 100 people, predominantly Christians, losing their lives, while at least 50,000 were displaced, and hundreds of houses and churches were damaged across the state, with Kandhamal at the epicentre of the unrest.
The commemoration this year held particular significance as it was the first since the BJP's victory in the May 2024 state elections, which ended Naveen Patnaik and the BJD's 24-year rule in Odisha. High-profile figures participated in the event, with Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi and Union Minister Dharmendra Pradhan paying their respects to Saraswati. Additionally, two Odisha Ministers, Rabi Narayan Naik and Suryabanshi Suraj, attended a function at Saraswati's Jalespata Ashram.
Despite earlier claims on social media of potential large-scale mobilisation, the turnout was notably smaller than anticipated. Anto Akkara, a senior journalist, reported, "The Sangh Parivar's much-trumpeted threat of mobilizing 4 to 6 lakh Hindus at the Jalespata Ashram... turned out be a damp squib with just over 1,000 people turning up despite the presence of two BJP ministers of Odisha in the gathering."
However, Fr. Ajay Singh, a prominent human rights activist, noted several events commemorating Swami's death, including "One rally consist[ing] of thousands and another Marathon Run involving 5000 youth organised in Bhubaneswar demanding CBI enquiry into death accusing Christians." He said that it was the first time since the incident took place that several events were held to commemorate the Swami's death.
The peaceful observation came as a relief to many, particularly considering the district's history of sectarian tensions. In the days leading up to the anniversary, there had been widespread concern among the Christian community. There were reports of Christian residents reportedly leaving for nearby towns, and closure of hostels due to fears of potential violence.
The administration's efforts to maintain peace were evident in the numerous peace committee meetings held across the district. These meetings brought together members from different communities and religious groups to foster unity and understanding.
BJP Chief Minister Majhi, in a statement on social media platform X, described Saraswati as a great social reformer. He said, “His (Saraswati’s) dedicated life for human welfare, service to the poor and needy, protection of culture and social reform will always inspire this society.”
Swami Muktanda, the current in charge of Saraswati’s Jalespata Ashram, expressed hope that the current government will unveil the truth and bring the assailants to justice. Meanwhile, the Member of Parliament from Kandhamal, Sukanta Kumar Panigrahi, also from the BJP, criticised the previous BJD government for not taking proper action against the alleged "conspirators" behind Saraswati's murder.
