Odisha Congress Chalks Out Panchayat Poll Strategy, Targets MMDR Act and OBC Reservation Issues
Bhubaneswar: The Odisha Pradesh Congress Committee (OPCC) has unveiled its strategy for the upcoming Panchayat elections, emphasising organisational unity, grassroots mobilisation, and public outreach on key issues including OBC reservation and amendments to the Mines and Minerals (Development and Regulation) Act (MMDR Act).
The strategy was finalised during a meeting of the Political Affairs Committee (PAC) of the Odisha Congress, attended by senior party leaders and office-bearers.
During the meeting, leaders resolved to strengthen the party at the grassroots level and launch extensive campaigns across rural Odisha.
Addressing party leaders, Lalji Desai, Odisha in-charge of the All India Congress Committee (AICC), expressed confidence in the party’s prospects and urged workers to take Congress’s message to voters across the state.
OPCC President Bhakta Charan Das called for greater coordination among district-level leaders and stressed the importance of expanding the party’s reach in villages ahead of the Panchayat elections.
A major focus of the discussions was the demand for OBC reservation in Panchayat polls.
The party decided to intensify its campaign on the issue and raise awareness among voters regarding reservation and representation in local governance.
The PAC also resolved to conduct door-to-door campaigns highlighting concerns over amendments to the MMDR Act and other issues affecting local communities.
Leaders argued that the changes could adversely impact tribal rights and mineral-rich regions of the state.
Former Union Minister Srikant Jena criticised the proposed data centre project, alleging that it could benefit corporate interests while placing additional pressure on Odisha’s water and power resources.
Former Chief Minister Giridhar Gamang voiced concerns about the impact of MMDR Act amendments on tribal communities and their traditional rights.
The party also discussed preparations for a major rally in Delhi and plans to strengthen communication with workers through the continued publication of the party newsletter, “Congress Barta.”
With the Panchayat elections approaching, the Congress hopes to regain political ground in Odisha by focusing on grassroots engagement, social justice issues, and rural outreach initiatives.
