Utkal Divas, also known as Odisha Day, is celebrated on April 1 every year to mark the formation of the state of Odisha in 1936. Before that, Odisha was a part of the Bengal Presidency under British rule.
The struggle for a separate state was led by several prominent leaders like Madhusudan Das (Utkala Gouraba), Gopabandhu Das (Utkala Mani), Fakir Mohan Senapati, and Pandita Nilakantha Das. Their efforts finally resulted in Odisha becoming an independent province with Sir John Hubbak as its first governor.
Historically, Odisha was once a part of the powerful Kalinga Kingdom, famously conquered by Emperor Ashoka in 261 BC. Later, King Kharavela revived its glory by making it a hub of art, architecture, and political power. The last Hindu king of Odisha, Gajapati Mukunda Deva, was defeated by the Mughals in 1576, and later, the British divided the state into different provinces before it was reunited in 1936.
In 2011, the Lok Sabha passed a bill to officially rename Orissa to Odisha, making it more aligned with the local pronunciation.
Why Does Koshal Region Seek Separation?
1. Economic Neglect
Western Odisha is rich in natural resources, yet it remains underdeveloped. The demand for a separate Koshal state stems from the belief that local revenue should benefit local people. Proponents argue that independent governance could lead to better infrastructure, industrial growth, and job opportunities.
2. Cultural and Linguistic Preservation
The dominance of Odia as the official language of education and administration has significantly impacted Koshali (Sambalpuri), particularly among younger generations. Since Koshali lacks official recognition, many feel compelled to prioritize Odia for education, employment, and government interactions. Over time, this has diluted Koshali’s purity and independent identity.
Supporters of Koshali language recognition demand its inclusion in the 8th Schedule of the Indian Constitution and its introduction as a medium of education in Western Odisha schools to ensure its survival and promotion.
3. Political and Administrative Autonomy
Critics argue that governance in Odisha is Bhubaneswar-centric, with policies favoring the coastal regions. A separate Koshal state could bring decision-making closer to the region, ensuring fair representation, improved public services, and policies tailored to local needs. Recently, Sambalpur MLA Jayanarayan Mishra raised his voice against singing ‘Bande Utkala Janani’ and did not stand during the state anthem, further intensifying the debate over regional identity and autonomy.
4. Environmental Exploitation and Unequal Development
Western Odisha hosts most of the state’s industries, mills, and factories, causing severe pollution of air and water. However, while the region bears the brunt of industrial waste and environmental degradation, major hospitals, universities, and key infrastructure projects are predominantly established in the coastal region, leading to further discontent among locals.
Challenges of a Koshal State
1. Financial Viability
Despite being resource-rich, Western Odisha lacks major industries. A key question remains: Can Koshal sustain itself financially without support from the rest of Odisha?
2. Political and Bureaucratic Hurdles
Statehood demands require central government approval, extensive negotiations, and a complex division of resources. These factors could create conflicts and delay the process.
3. Impact on Odisha’s Integrity
A separate state could weaken Odisha’s unity and set a precedent for further state divisions across India.
Political Strategy for Koshal Statehood
One proposed solution to achieve statehood is the formation of a Koshali political party dedicated to representing the interests of Western Odisha. This party could strategically form a coalition with national parties and push for a formal agreement with the central government, ensuring that statehood for Koshal is prioritized in exchange for political support. This approach could provide a structured and politically viable path toward achieving separation.
The Bigger Question: Statehood or Regional Autonomy?
As Odisha celebrates Utkal Divas, the demand for Koshal state remains a contentious issue. Should Koshali be given official recognition to safeguard its linguistic and cultural heritage? Can the problems of Western Odisha be addressed through regional autonomy instead of statehood? The debate continues, and the future of Koshal remains uncertain.