Odisha Assembly Paralyzed Amid Protests Over Panchayati Raj Powers

Bhubaneswar, Sept 22,  — The Odisha Legislative Assembly witnessed yet another day of disruption as opposition members staged vociferous protests over the alleged dilution of Panchayati Raj powers.

The uproar forced Speaker Surama Padhy to adjourn the House until 4 PM, marking the fourth consecutive day of stalled proceedings.

The session began with the customary Question Hour but quickly descended into chaos. BJD legislators stormed the well of the House, waving placards and shouting slogans.

Congress MLAs joined in with a silent protest, holding posters demanding clarity on the government’s stance regarding local governance.

BJP MLA Sanatan Bijuli attempted to raise a question but was drowned out by the commotion. Despite repeated appeals for order, Speaker Padhy was compelled to suspend the session.

The ongoing deadlock has raised concerns over legislative productivity and the future of decentralisation in Odisha.

With no legislative business conducted for four days, pressure mounts on the government to address the opposition’s grievances and restore normalcy in the Assembly.