Odisha Assembly Monsoon Session to begin on Sept. 22

Opposition likely to target government over MMDR issue, floods, textbook errors

By Chitta Ranjan Beura

Bhubaneswar, Aug. 25: The Monsoon Session of the Odisha Legislative Assembly will begin on September 22 and continue till October 3, with nine working days scheduled during the session.

According to the schedule, the House will have one holiday and two no-meeting days during the period. Several key legislative, administrative and public-interest issues are expected to come up for discussion.

The Opposition is likely to step up its attack on the BJP government over the Mines and Minerals (Development and Regulation) (MMDR) issue. Opposition parties had earlier demanded a two-day special session of the Assembly to discuss the matter.

The ruling BJP, however, has maintained that it is prepared to respond to all issues and questions raised by the Opposition during the session.

Flood management, textbook errors likely to dominate

The handling of the recent flood situation in the state is also expected to come under sharp scrutiny. Opposition parties are likely to question the government over its preparedness, relief measures and flood-management strategy.

The textbook controversy may emerge as another major flashpoint, with the Opposition expected to raise the issue of errors in school textbooks as well as delays in the distribution of books to students.

Sources said the Opposition is preparing to corner the government on these issues, while the ruling party is working out its strategy to defend its record and counter the charges in the House.

Other issues likely to figure prominently include the teachers’ agitation, elections in higher educational institutions and discontent among farmers.

With several contentious issues lined up, the Monsoon Session is expected to witness heated exchanges between the treasury and Opposition benches.