Why Did the Odisha Assembly Speaker Call an All-Party Meeting Ahead of the Budget Session?
Synopsis
In a significant move, Odisha Assembly Speaker Surama Padhy convenes an all-party meeting to ensure a collaborative approach ahead of the crucial Budget Session. Leaders from various parties unite to discuss strategies for a smooth legislative process. Key issues like farmers' distress are on the agenda, promising a dynamic session ahead.
Key Takeaways
All-party meeting convened for Budget Session cooperation.
Focus on farmers' issues amidst the session.
Governor's address to open the session.
Budget presentation scheduled for February 20.
Session to conclude on April 8.
Bhubaneswar, Feb 16 (NationPress) The Speaker of the Odisha Assembly, Surama Padhy, held an all-party gathering on Monday, aiming to garner support from both the opposition and treasury benches for the smooth and peaceful execution of the vital Budget Session, set to start on Tuesday.
Among those present were Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi, Parliamentary Affairs Minister Mukesh Mahaling, Biju Janata Dal (BJD) Chief Whip Pramila Mallik, and Congress Legislature Party (CLP) leader Rama Chandra Kadam, along with various senior leaders, in a meeting chaired by the Speaker.
After the meeting, Mahaling informed the media, “It was collectively agreed upon to ensure that the House operates smoothly and in an orderly fashion. The session will proceed according to the established rules, procedures, and agenda for the session.”
The session is set to commence on Tuesday with the address from Odisha Governor Hari Babu Kambhampati. On February 20, Chief Minister Majhi will unveil the annual state Budget for the financial year 2026–27.
Moreover, Mahaling indicated that following 14 days of discussions on grant demands, the Appropriation Bill for the 2026–27 Budget will be presented on March 31. Official sources reveal that the sixth session of the 17th Odisha Assembly is expected to conclude on April 8.
This session will unfold in two segments, encompassing 28 working days. According to the timetable, after the address from Governor Kambhampati on February 17, discussions on the Motion of Thanks regarding the Governor’s address will continue until February 19.
In the meantime, opposition leaders have informed the media that they will raise significant issues such as farmers' distress and the state's stance on Kotia, aiming to highlight the government's shortcomings.
“We are certainly going to address the challenges faced by farmers throughout the state, including the delay in paddy procurement and the ongoing issues of Katni Chhatni (unauthorized deductions by millers during procurement),” stated Pramila Mallik, the BJD Chief Whip.
Conversely, Congress CLP leader Kadam mentioned that the party will formulate its strategy after a meeting with Congress MLAs later in the evening.
Point of View
The convening of an all-party meeting by Odisha Assembly Speaker Surama Padhy signifies a proactive approach towards effective governance. It reflects the necessity for unity and cooperation among political factions, especially during critical budget discussions. The focus on farmers' issues indicates a responsive government, but it remains to be seen how effectively these concerns will be addressed in the upcoming session.
NationPress
12 Jul 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the purpose of the all-party meeting convened by the Odisha Assembly Speaker?
The purpose is to ensure cooperation between opposition and treasury benches for the smooth conduct of the Budget Session.
When does the Odisha Budget Session start?
The Budget Session is scheduled to commence on Tuesday, February 17.
What important issues will be discussed in the assembly?
Key issues include farmers' distress, the state's stance on Kotia, and the delay in paddy procurement.
When will the annual state Budget be presented?
The annual state Budget for 2026–27 will be presented by the Chief Minister on February 20.
How long is the Budget Session expected to last?
The session is planned for two phases and will have a total of 28 working days.
