On this auspicious day, August 30, the political India remembers the birth anniversary of Binayak Acharya, (August 30, 1918) a remarkable political leader and former Chief Minister of Odisha. His journey from humble beginnings to the heights of political prominence is nothing short of a rags-to-riches tale that continues to inspire generations.

Born into a Brahmin family in 1918, Binayak Acharya's early life was marked by his academic prowess and a deep admiration for the prominent Communist leaders of Odisha, particularly Bijoy Chandra Das, the visionary founder of the Communist Party in the region. Though Das introduced young Acharya to the world of politics, he predicted that Acharya's disposition was not inclined towards being a Communist.

Intriguingly, it was Acharya's Gandhian inclinations that ultimately steered his path. Despite starting his career as a schoolteacher at Berhampur Municipal High School, Acharya's heart was aligned with various nationalistic causes. His involvement in these activities led him to be listed as a suspect by the police during the tumultuous year of 1942.

Acharya's political journey gained solid footing in 1954 when he took charge of leading peace squads during the language riots in southern Orissa. Subsequently, he championed the cause of Harijans (Dalits), defying social norms and even sharing meals with them to challenge the orthodox conventions of his community. In 1961, he joined the Congress Party, along with his political mentor.

The turning point of his political career arrived in 1967 when he secured a resounding victory against a formidable opponent from the Jana Sangh, winning by a margin of 9,000 votes. This triumph marked his emergence onto the political stage and laid the foundation for his future leadership roles.

Throughout his political tenure, Acharya held various significant positions, including Deputy Opposition Leader, Opposition Leader, and Convenor of the Pradesh Congress Committee. His portfolio expanded to encompass crucial ministries such as Agriculture, Cooperation, Urban Development, Planning, Excise, and Finance, each providing him with a deep understanding of both statecraft and the unique challenges faced by Odisha.

Notably, during the Orissa Congress split in the 1970s, when many legislators shifted allegiance to Biju Patnaik's Utkal Congress, Acharya remained steadfast in his commitment to the Congress cause. Alongside his dedicated colleagues, he formed the nucleus of a loyal following that steadily grew in strength, eventually achieving an overwhelming majority in the state legislature.

Acharya's unwavering confidence and resolute dedication provided his followers with a sense of direction during tumultuous times in Odisha's political landscape. His relentless pursuit of social reform, coupled with his selfless commitment, became the bedrock of his success. These qualities played a pivotal role in the Congress Party's remarkable victory in the 1971 elections.

As we honor Binayak Acharya's birth anniversary, we celebrate not only the life of a distinguished political leader but also the embodiment of resilience, determination, and devotion to public service. His legacy continues to illuminate the path for aspiring leaders, reminding us that transformative change begins with an unwavering commitment to the greater good.

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