Bhubaneswar, July 22: The first session of the 17th Odisha Assembly, which commenced on Monday, is expected to be tumultuous as opposition parties, the BJD and Congress, prepare to confront the BJP government on several contentious issues. Among the points of contention are the alleged assault on a government servant at Puri Raj Bhavan and accusations of mismanagement during the Rath Yatra festival.
During its legislative party meeting on Saturday evening, the principal opposition BJD resolved to address the alleged mismanagement during Lord Jagannath's Rath Yatra, the state's law and order situation, the alleged assault on an assistant section officer at Raj Bhavan in Puri, and the ongoing price rise of essential commodities.
BJD chief whip Pramila Mallick criticised the BJP for unfulfilled promises, including the provision of 300 free units of electricity and the increase of paddy MSP before the elections.
Similarly, the Congress has been vocal in demanding action against Odisha Governor Raghubar Das's son, alleging his involvement in the physical assault of an ASO at Raj Bhavan. The party has confirmed it will raise this issue in the House.
In response, the BJP government has expressed its readiness to address all concerns raised by the opposition parties.
Ahead of the session, Speaker Surama Padhy convened an all-party meeting on Sunday to ensure smooth proceedings in the House. However, the Congress and CPI chose not to attend.
Enhanced security measures have been implemented around the state assembly for the duration of the session, which will continue until September 13. Approximately 30 platoons of police, alongside 300 officers of various ranks under the supervision of DCP Bhubaneswar, will oversee security.
Armed police personnel will be stationed at every entry point of the assembly building, with nine quick reaction teams, including two mobile units, positioned strategically near the assembly to respond to any incidents. Additionally, 100 intelligence officers, a bomb detection and disposal team, an anti-sabotage squad, and two tactical units will be deployed.
The assembly session will begin with an address by the governor, followed by the presentation of the annual budget for 2024-25 on July 25.
In the 147-member assembly, the BJP holds 78 seats, the BJD 51, the Congress 14, the CPIM one, along with three Independent MLAs.
