BHUBANESWAR: In an unusual case, two individuals sharing the same name — Antaryami Mishra — claimed ownership of the Padma Shri award announced in 2023. The case has now landed in Orissa high court much to the surprise of the judge.
The petitioner, a doctor and Odia litterateur with 29 books published in his name in various Indian languages, alleged that his namesake, a former journalist, fraudulently claimed the award through impersonation.
Padma Shri, India’s fourth highest civilian award, is given annually to individuals who have made significant contributions in various fields, including literature, education and journalism.
While hearing the case on Tuesday, Justice S K Panigrahi observed, “This court finds it rather surprising that, despite the state govt playing a key role in the verification process and various paraphernalia followed before the Padma Shri award is declared, yet such type of claim and counterclaim kind of situation arises just because the names are identical.”
Taking cognisance of the serious nature of the dispute, the HC directed both parties to appear in person on Feb 24 at 2 pm. They were instructed to present all relevant publications and materials to substantiate their respective claims to the award.
The Union govt, represented through its counsel, has already received a notice regarding the matter. The court also issued notices to other concerned parties through registered post.
The defendant, an author of many textbooks and a native of Dhenkanal town who received the award from President Droupadi Murmu, said he would respond to the court notice when he receives it. “I was not aware of the court case. I don’t think there is any confusion regarding my award as my name was recommended by several people from Odisha and outside, including former Andhra Pradesh governor Biswabhusan Harichandan, and communications made by the govt to my home address,” he said.
However, Anand Swain, the petitioner’s advocate, said his client got a congratulatory call from the ministry of home affairs and is the rightful claimant to the award. The petitioner is a native of Tankapani Road in Bhubaneswar.