Why Did the Odisha Assembly Erupt Over the Fertiliser Crisis?
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Synopsis
The Odisha Assembly erupted in chaos as BJD leaders protested the fertiliser crisis, demanding discussions to address the issue. This uproar led to the House being adjourned shortly after it commenced. The ongoing struggle of farmers highlights the urgent need for solutions.
Key Takeaways
- Odisha Assembly faced chaos due to fertiliser crisis.
- BJD leaders demanded discussions to address severe shortages.
- The House was adjourned by Speaker Surama Padhy.
- Farmers protested, highlighting the urgency of the situation.
- Political parties called for collaborative efforts to resolve the crisis.
Bhubaneswar, Sep 19 (NationPress) The Odisha Assembly experienced a significant uproar on Friday due to the fertiliser crisis, spearheaded by opposition Biju Janata Dal (BJD) leaders.
As the Question Hour commenced, BJD members brandishing placards and banners gathered around Speaker Surama Padhy’s podium, chanting slogans and demanding that all House proceedings be halted to facilitate a discussion on the fertiliser shortage.
This turmoil led Speaker Padhy to adjourn the House for the day until 4 p.m., just four minutes into the Question Hour. Additionally, it is important to highlight that the opposition Congress party has also put forward an adjournment motion advocating for discussions regarding the fertiliser crisis.
In a statement to the media, senior BJD leader and party chief whip Pramila Mallik remarked, “The state is currently facing a significant fertiliser shortage. Farmers are protesting in various locations due to inadequate fertiliser supply, putting their crops at risk. We have urged the Speaker to facilitate a discussion by suspending all House activities for the benefit of the farmers, who represent 60 percent of the state’s populace.”
Responding to questions about the Congress's adjournment motion, Mallik emphasized that a mere 10 to 15-minute discussion is inadequate to tackle such a critical issue.
She added that the BJD has asked the Speaker to suspend all other business of the House to allow for a thorough and extended discussion on the fertiliser crisis.
“The opposition BJD and Congress leaders do not uphold democratic values in Odisha. If they truly valued democratic principles, they wouldn’t have created chaos during Question Hour. Both Congress and BJD members intentionally attempted to disrupt the House's proceedings. We were prepared to address the adjournment motion raised by the opposition regarding this issue—so why did they withdraw?” stated a senior BJP MLA.
Point of View
The recent turmoil in the Odisha Assembly underscores the urgent issues surrounding agricultural support and governance. The ongoing fertiliser crisis is not just a regional concern but a fundamental issue that threatens the livelihoods of countless farmers across the nation. Addressing such crises requires a collaborative effort from all political parties, emphasizing the need for constructive dialogue rather than disruption.
NationPress
20/09/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What caused the uproar in the Odisha Assembly?
The uproar was caused by the opposition BJD leaders protesting the ongoing fertiliser crisis in the state, demanding immediate discussions on the matter.
What was the outcome of the protest?
The protest resulted in Speaker Surama Padhy adjourning the House until 4 p.m., just minutes after the Question Hour began.
How are farmers affected by the fertiliser crisis?
Farmers are facing severe shortages of fertiliser, leading to protests as their crops are at risk of being ruined.
What did BJD leaders request from the Speaker?
BJD leaders requested the Speaker to suspend all House activities to allow for a focused discussion on the fertiliser crisis.
How did the BJP respond to the protests?
A senior BJP MLA criticized the opposition for not respecting democratic principles and suggested they were intentionally disrupting the House proceedings.
