Is the Odisha Assembly Under Threat from BJD's Gherao on Sep 23?
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Synopsis
In a bold move, the Biju Janata Dal (BJD) plans to 'gherao' the Odisha Assembly on September 23, challenging the state government over its alleged erosion of powers in the three-tier Panchayati Raj system. This protest aims to reclaim democratic rights at the grassroots level amidst claims of budget cuts and reduced authority for elected representatives.
Key Takeaways
- BJD's protest on September 23 aims to highlight issues with local governance.
- Claims of budget cuts affecting social welfare programs.
- Concerns over the curtailment of powers for grassroots elected representatives.
- Call for unity among local elected officials.
- The protest is part of a larger political struggle in Odisha.
Bhubaneswar, Sep 20 (NationPress) The primary opposition party, Biju Janata Dal (BJD), has declared its intention to conduct a 'gherao' of the Odisha Assembly on September 23. They accuse the state administration of undermining the three-tier Panchayati Raj Institutions (PRI) by methodically restricting the authority of elected officials at the community level.
During a press briefing, senior BJD figure Debi Prasad Mishra claimed that the state government has diminished funding for various social welfare initiatives, including the Jal Jeevan Mission, PM Awas Yojana, and Antyodaya Awas Yojana, among others.
He further asserted that laborers registered under the prominent Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Act (MGNREGA) are not receiving their due wages.
Mishra emphasized that BJD will not passively observe this situation and will protest against the alleged conspiracy by the BJP-led state government to dismantle the three-tier Panchayati Raj system in Odisha. He highlighted that the authority of grassroots elected representatives, such as Zila Parishad, Panchayat Samiti, and Gram Sabhas, is being restricted by the state government.
In a separate statement, senior BJD member Arun Kumar Sahoo accused the state government of persistently attempting to dismantle the three-tier Panchayati Raj structure—Zilla Parishad, Panchayat Samiti, and Gram Panchayat—over the last 15 months.
“An instruction, which had already received cabinet approval, was issued yesterday, limiting the powers of chairpersons at the Panchayat Samiti (block) level. It granted authority to approve projects up to Rs 10 lakh to Block Development Officers (BDOs), effectively reducing chairpersons to mere rubber stamps. The Zilla Parishad Presidents have similarly become rubber stamps,” he claimed.
Sahoo also alleged that Collectors and MLAs have been empowered to alter the projects approved by Gram Sabhas and Panchayats.
The senior BJD leader called upon all elected officials, including Sarpanchs, Samiti Sabhyas, Ward Members, and Zilla Parishad Members, within the three-tier Panchayati Raj Institutions (Zilla Parishad, Panchayat Samiti, and Gram Panchayat) statewide to unite and gherao the Odisha Assembly on September 23 in protest against the BJP-led state government, to uphold democracy.
Point of View
It is essential to observe the unfolding political dynamics in Odisha. The BJD's planned protest reflects significant concerns regarding the autonomy of local governance structures, which are vital for grassroots democracy. The tensions between the BJD and the ruling BJP highlight the ongoing struggle for power at both state and local levels, warranting close scrutiny as citizens seek to ensure their democratic rights.
NationPress
20/09/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the reason behind the BJD's gherao of the Odisha Assembly?
The BJD is protesting against perceived erosion of powers of the three-tier Panchayati Raj Institutions by the state government.
When is the gherao scheduled to take place?
The gherao is scheduled for September 23.
What specific issues is the BJD raising regarding local governance?
The BJD alleges that budget cuts and restrictions on powers of elected representatives are undermining local governance.
Who are the key leaders involved in this protest?
Key BJD leaders involved include Debi Prasad Mishra and Arun Kumar Sahoo.
What impact could this protest have on the political landscape?
This protest could influence the dynamics between the BJD and the BJP, potentially reshaping local governance in Odisha.
