After portfolio, Odisha ex-Minister loses ruling party s post

Bhubaneswar Dec 23 (IANS) A day after Damodar Rout was sacked from Odisha s Council of Ministers Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik on Saturday removed him as Vice President of the ruling Biju Janata Dal (BJD).

Earlier Patnaik who is BJP President removed Rout as Minister over his casteist remarks against the Brahmins.

"Biju Janata Dal chief Naveen Patnaik is pleased to relieve Dr Damodar Rout from the post of party Vice President " a BJD statement said.

Rout was also removed as party observer for Dhenkanal district with immediate effect.

Rout had invited severe criticism for allegedly speaking at a function in Malkangiri that tribals never begged even during adverse situations... but the Brahmins begged for alms if the situation arises.

--IANS
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