Bhubaneshwar: The Odisha Assembly witnessed repeated disruptions as the Biju Janata Dal (BJD) and Congress legislators protested against a Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) MLA's contentious remark and rising crimes against women.
BJD members demanded a response from CM Mohan Charan Majhi over Jay Narayan Mishra's comment on Koshala's 1936 merger, while Congress MLAs raised concerns over increasing crimes against women.
BJP Leader's 'Koshala' Claim Sparks Controversy
At a March 8 event in Sambalpur, BJP leader Jay Narayan Mishra sparked controversy by claiming that merging Koshala with Odisha in 1936 was a "historical mistake," alleging neglect of the region in favor of coastal districts. Following a tribute to former minister Ananta Charan Das, opposition members stormed the well of the House, demanding action.
Speaker Adjourns the House
Chaos erupted in the assembly as BJD members stormed the well with slogans, and senior Congress leader Taraprasad Bahinipati climbed onto the Speaker's podium in protest.
Speaker Surama Padhy adjourned the House multiple times, but disruptions persisted. An all-party meeting failed to restore order, and Congress members later opposed the budget discussion, with Bahinipati breaking the Speaker's microphone.
Congress Members Stage Walkout Protest
Congress members staged a walkout and protested near Mahatma Gandhi’s statue, claiming the all-party meeting failed to reach a consensus and opposing the Speaker’s decision to hold discussions. The House was later adjourned for the day.
BJP MLA Babu Singh told PTI, "The opposition has disrupted proceedings. We are ready to discuss the alleged disrespect to Biju Babu, but they continue to agitate." When asked about Jay Narayan Mishra’s controversial remark, he added, "It could be his personal opinion. The BJP does not support any statement against Odisha’s interests."
Mishra was absent from the House during the session.
