By Bizodisha Bureau, Bhubaneswar, July 16, 2019: Senior BJP leader Biswabhusan Harichandan was today appointed the Governor of Andhra Pradesh.

Harichandan will replace SL Narsimhan, who has been functioning as the Governor for two Telugu states, Telangana and Andhra Pradesh, since the bifurcation of erstwhile Andhra Pradesh in 2014.

A seasoned politician, Harichandan was elected to Odisha Assembly five times – twice on Janata Dal ticket and thrice on BJP ticket. He held crucial portfolios of Revenue, Law and Industries department as a minister.

During the BJP-BJD coalition government in Odisha, Harichandan also held the portfolios of Industry, Law and Rural Development departments.

“I thank Prime Minister Narendra Modi as he is giving due recognition and respect to Odisha. During my conversation with PM yesterday, he said, ‘Apko Odisha Chodna Hoga. Ek Do Din Ke Andar Badi Responsibility Dunga.’ I was sure that some major responsibility will be given to me,” said Harichandan.

Chief minister Naveen Patnaik congratulated Harichandan on being appointed Governor of Andhra Pradesh.

“Congratulate senior BJP leader from Odisha, Biswabhusan Harichandan on being appointed as Governor of Andhra Pradesh. Wish him all success in his new assignment,” tweeted Patnaik.

Union Minister Dharmendra Pradhan took to Twitter to congratulate Biswabhusan Harichandan, while thanking PM Modi and Union Home Minister Amit Shah for the accolade for Odisha.