THEBUSINESSBYTES
BUREAU
BHUBANESWAR,
JUNE 12, 2026
“Everyone may have different ideologies, but
the nation must remain supreme. Criticism of the government is part of
democracy, but criticism should never cross the line into disrespecting the
country,” Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi said on Friday while
addressing a gathering of social media influencers in Bhubaneswar on the
occasion of the BJP government’s second anniversary in the state.
Emphasising the
importance of national interest above political or ideological differences,
Majhi said social media influencers are free to criticise the government, but
any form of disrespect towards the nation is unacceptable. He noted that
healthy criticism strengthens democracy, provided it is exercised responsibly
and within the bounds of respect for the country.
Describing social
media influencers as powerful “digital ambassadors” and future “opinion
leaders” of a developed India and a prosperous Odisha, the Chief Minister
highlighted their growing influence in shaping public opinion and driving
social discourse in the digital era.
At the same time, he
urged content creators to use their platforms responsibly and avoid content that
could spark unnecessary controversies. According to Majhi, social media should
not be confined to generating views or offering momentary entertainment but
should serve as a medium for positive social transformation.
Calling for a
transition from “clickbait and cheap fame” to “purpose-driven content,” he
encouraged influencers to leverage their reach to spread constructive messages,
promote social awareness and contribute to nation-building efforts.
The Chief Minister
also spoke about the challenges confronting young people in today’s digital
landscape. He observed that while the younger generation is highly talented and
creative, many struggle with information overload, identity-related pressures
and the negative influences that often proliferate in cyberspace.
Urging influencers to
play a meaningful role in guiding society, CM Majhi said responsible content
creation can help foster a healthy digital ecosystem and inspire positive
change among the youth. He called upon social media creators to become
catalysts for constructive dialogue and social progress while upholding the
values of the nation.
