Bhubaneswar

Chaos continued on the second day of the Odisha Assembly’s budget session. Speaker Surama Padhy adjourned the House twice, first until 11:30 am and later until 4 pm, due to uproar from opposition Biju Janata Dal (BJD) members. The disruption was over the alleged assault on an Assistant Section Officer (ASO) by the son of Governor Raghubar Das on July 7.

Senior BJD leader Pramila Mallik accused the government of failing to provide justice to the ASO, who was transferred despite discussions with the Governor and CM. She criticized the government for not ensuring the safety of Odia people, a key issue in their campaign.

Law Minister Prithiviraj Harichandan urged patience until the Puri collector’s investigation report is submitted, which drew criticism from Mallik.

Congress leader Tara Prasad Bahinipati claimed that the BJD and BJP were colluding to adjourn the House to avoid discussing critical issues like unemployment.

The session began contentiously on Monday when the opposition walked out as Governor Raghubar Das started his address. Both the Congress and BJD have been demanding action against the Governor’s son, Lalit Kumar, for allegedly assaulting ASO Baikuntha Pradhan during President Droupadi Murmu’s visit for the Rath Yatra.

The opposition continues to press for accountability and justice for the ASO, maintaining that the government’s inaction is unacceptable.