Bhubaneswar, Feb 17 (NationPress) The opposition parties, Biju Janata Dal (BJD) and Indian National Congress (INC), expressed strong disapproval of the speech delivered by Governor Hari Babu Kambhampati during the opening of the Budget Session in the Odisha Assembly on Tuesday.

Members from both the BJD and Congress staged a walkout from the Assembly as a sign of protest against the Governor’s address.

In a media interaction, Leader of Opposition and BJD president Naveen Patnaik criticized the Governor's remarks, labeling them as “strong in words but weak in action,” and asserted that they did not accurately represent the realities of governance.

The seasoned politician raised serious alarms over the increasing instances of mob lynching in Odisha and throughout India, claiming a decline in the law-and-order situation.

He stated that the current law-and-order scenario in Odisha under the BJP-led administration is alarming. Patnaik also remarked that reports of violence and lawlessness are more prevalent in Odisha than in other parts of the country.

Meanwhile, Congress Legislature Party leader Rama Chandra Kadam contended that there is a disconnect between the government's statements and the Governor’s speech delivered on Tuesday.

Kadam further asserted that the state government lacks commitment towards the development of Odisha and safeguarding its interests.

The ruling BJP, in contrast, criticized the opposition, claiming they are confused and unable to accept the rapid advancements occurring in the state under the current administration.

It is noteworthy that the Budget Session of the Odisha Assembly began with the Governor’s address, in which he urged members to fulfill their responsibilities with commitment and work collectively for inclusive growth.

The Governor expressed aspirations for a Viksit Odisha by 2036, marking the centenary of the state's formation.

Governor Kambhampati also highlighted various welfare and developmental programs initiated by the state government aimed at achieving goals in sectors such as agriculture, industry, education, infrastructure, tourism, healthcare, and IT and ITES.

The address by the Governor will be followed by a two-day discussion, with the State Budget scheduled to be presented on February 20 by Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi, who also oversees the Finance portfolio.

As per official sources, the sixth session of the 17th Odisha Assembly is set to conclude on April 8, with the session organized into two phases comprising 28 working days.