Why is the BJD Opposing the Odisha Cabinet's Decision to Empower BDOs?
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Synopsis
The BJD in Odisha is fiercely opposing the cabinet's move to enhance BDOs' financial powers, viewing it as a threat to democratic processes and local governance. This pivotal decision could lead to widespread protests, raising questions about the future of the state's Panchayati Raj system and the role of elected representatives.
Key Takeaways
- BJD's Strong Opposition: The party sees the decision as a direct attack on democracy.
- Financial Powers Increased: BDOs can now approve larger project budgets without oversight.
- Potential Protests: BJD warns of statewide agitation if the decision is not reversed.
- Impact on Panchayati Raj: The changes could undermine local governance structures.
- Call for Accountability: The BJD emphasizes the need for elected representatives to maintain authority.
Bhubaneswar, Sep 11 (NationPress) The opposition Biju Janata Dal (BJD) in Odisha has vehemently criticized the state cabinet's recent decision to expand the financial authority of Block Development Officers (BDOs), labeling it an outright attack on democracy and the foundational three-tier Panchayati Raj system within the state.
During a press conference, party representatives claimed that the state government is effectively stripping elected officials of their roles in Panchayati Raj institutions.
They highlighted that, under the revised rules, the approval of works costing between Rs 2 lakh to Rs 10 lakh will no longer necessitate the signature of Panchayat Samiti chairpersons.
“The elected block chairpersons belong to the BJD. However, to satisfy its political and financial aspirations, the government has transferred all authority to BDOs, thereby diminishing the influence of elected representatives,” stated senior BJD MLA Arun Sahoo.
He further warned that the party would initiate statewide protests if the decision remains unchanged.
“Should the government not retract this decision, a significant movement will arise across Odisha,” Sahoo emphasized.
He accused the BJD of resisting the ruling BJP's effort to undermine democracy and the three-tier Panchayati Raj framework.
Senior BJD leader Pratap Jena cautioned that if the state government fails to reverse its decision, chairpersons of Panchayat Samiti, Sarpanch, members of Panchayat Samiti, and Zilla Parishad across all 314 blocks in Odisha will be compelled to voice their dissent.
On Wednesday, the Odisha Cabinet approved changes to the Odisha Panchayat Samiti Accounting Procedure Rules, 2002, with the objective of speeding up development initiatives and ensuring the prompt execution of projects at the grassroots level.
“Following this Cabinet resolution, the financial authority of Block Development Officers (BDOs) to approve Panchayat Samiti project expenditures has been increased from Rs 2 lakh to Rs 10 lakh, eliminating the need for the signature of the relevant Panchayat Samiti Chairman.
Additionally, the power to grant administrative approval for plans and estimates concerning Panchayat Samiti projects has been assigned to the CDO-cum-EO, Zilla Parishad, to facilitate quicker financial approvals and ensure the effective implementation of development schemes,” the official announcement stated.
Point of View
The opposition to the Odisha Cabinet's decision reflects broader concerns about democratic integrity and local governance. The BJD's stance underscores the importance of maintaining a balance of power in decentralized governance structures, which are essential for ensuring accountability and representation.
NationPress
20/09/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the BJD's stance on the recent cabinet decision?
The BJD opposes the cabinet's decision, claiming it undermines democracy and the three-tier Panchayati Raj system.
How has the financial power of BDOs changed?
The financial authority of BDOs has been increased from Rs 2 lakh to Rs 10 lakh without needing the chairman's signature.
What actions will the BJD take if the decision is not revoked?
The BJD has warned of initiating statewide protests if the decision remains unchanged.
Who is Arun Sahoo?
Arun Sahoo is a senior MLA from the BJD who has voiced strong opposition to the cabinet's decision.
What are the implications of this decision for local governance?
The decision could diminish the role of elected representatives, potentially leading to protests and challenges to democratic processes.
