Minister Pradip Maharathy gets additional charge of Agriculture department

Bhubaneswar: Panchayati Raj Minister Pradip Maharathy on Friday got additional charge of Agriculture department after Odisha Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik dismissed Damodar Rout from the council of ministers over his casteist remarks.

Damodar Rout was Agriculture Minister in Naveen Patnaik’s cabinet.

Earlier, the Chief Minister sacked Damodar Rout from the council of ministers.

“I strongly disapprove of anyone who makes derogatory remarks against any caste, creed or religion. I have dismissed Damodar Rout from the council of ministers. A letter has been sent this evening to the Governor to accept this dismissal,” said the Chief Minister.

Damodar Rout has invited severe criticism in last few days over his ‘beggar’ remarks on Brahmin community.