Will BJD Highlight Electoral Irregularities and Special Category Status in the Upcoming Winter Session of Parliament?
Click to start listening
Synopsis
As the Winter Session of Parliament approaches, the Biju Janata Dal (BJD) gears up to spotlight crucial issues affecting Odisha. From electoral irregularities to demands for Special Category status, the party aims to advocate for the interests of the state amidst rising national concerns. Stay tuned for updates.
Key Takeaways
- BJD will address electoral irregularities in the Winter Session.
- Demand for Special Category State status for Odisha is a priority.
- Concerns over rising crime rates will be raised.
- Economic issues, including unemployment and commodity prices, will also be discussed.
- Strategic meetings among political leaders are ongoing.
Bhubaneswar, Nov 30 (NationPress) The opposition Biju Janata Dal (BJD) is poised to bring forth various concerns regarding Odisha during the forthcoming Winter Session of Parliament, which is set to begin on Monday.
Sources from the party indicated that the BJD plans to address allegations of significant electoral irregularities that occurred during the recent Nuapada by-elections in Odisha. They mentioned that the party has reached out to the Election Commission of India (ECI) multiple times previously to express worries about electoral discrepancies in the state as the 2024 polls approach.
In addition to issues related to elections, the BJD will reaffirm its demand for Odisha to be designated as a Special Category State.
Other matters the party intends to discuss in Parliament include the worsening law-and-order situation and the increase in crimes against women and children in Odisha, the ongoing investigation by the CBI into a multi-crore police recruitment scandal, and disputes concerning Polavaram and the Mahanadi.
The regional party will also advocate for a doubling of the minimum support price (MSP) for farmers, adjustments to coal royalties and green taxes; the establishment of comprehensive AIIMS hospitals in Sambalpur, Koraput, and Balasore; resolution of 139 pending proposals related to the ST list for Odisha; the inclusion of Ho, Mundari, Bhumij, Saora, and Kui languages in the Eighth Schedule of the Constitution; and the complete repeal of the Goods and Services Tax (GST) on kendu leaf.
Furthermore, BJD sources noted that the party will address issues such as the escalating prices of essential commodities and rising unemployment—concerns that affect the entire nation—during the Winter Session.
Importantly, the Winter Session will kick off on Monday (December 1) and run until December 19.
On the eve of the session, a series of strategic discussions commenced on Sunday, where floor leaders from various political parties deliberated on issues for nearly two hours. Union Parliamentary Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju stated that 50 leaders from 36 political parties participated in the meeting.
Rijiju emphasized that the government is prepared to address every matter amid the smooth conduct of business during the Winter Session of Parliament beginning on Monday.
Point of View
The Biju Janata Dal's approach during the Winter Session is a significant reflection of regional concerns that resonate nationwide. Balancing state demands with national implications is crucial, especially given the rising sentiments around electoral integrity and social issues. The party's agenda may serve as a litmus test for the central government's responsiveness to regional voices.
NationPress
30/11/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the main issues BJD will raise in Parliament?
BJD plans to address electoral irregularities, demand Special Category status for Odisha, and discuss law-and-order concerns, among other issues.
When does the Winter Session of Parliament begin?
The Winter Session of Parliament is set to commence on December 1 and will continue until December 19.
What is the significance of Special Category status for Odisha?
Special Category status would provide Odisha with additional financial support and resources for development, addressing its unique challenges.
How will BJD's agenda affect Odisha?
BJD's agenda aims to highlight critical issues that directly impact the quality of life for residents in Odisha, pressing for necessary changes at the national level.
Who is leading the discussions in Parliament?
Union Parliamentary Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju is overseeing the discussions among political party leaders ahead of the Winter Session.
