Uproar in Odisha Assembly over BJP MLA's Controversial Remarks
Odisha Vidhan Sabha: A significant uproar erupted in the Odisha Legislative Assembly following a controversial statement made by BJP MLA Jayanarayan Mishra. Opposition parties claim his remarks insulted the state's dignity. This marked the first instance of physical altercation between ruling and opposition MLAs in the Odisha Assembly. While such incidents have been witnessed in the Uttar Pradesh and Bihar Assemblies, this was unprecedented in Odisha.
What is the Issue?
Recently, BJP MLA Jayanarayan Mishra referred to the integration of western Odisha into the state as a historical blunder during a government function. Furthermore, he remained seated during the playing of the state anthem, 'Bande Utkal Janani,' drawing widespread criticism across the state. This issue ignited a heated debate in the Assembly on Tuesday.
Assembly Witnessing Uproar and Physical Altercation
Congress and BJD (Biju Janata Dal) MLAs protested the statement vehemently. Congress MLA Tara Prasad Bahinipati climbed onto the Speaker's podium in protest, while BJD MLAs wore black armbands and carried placards demanding a response from the government. During question hour, a scuffle broke out between ruling and opposition MLAs, escalating into a physical altercation. Senior Congress MLA Tara Prasad Bahinipati alleged that BJP MLAs grabbed his collar and verbally abused him. He stated, "I have been an MLA for 25 years, but I have never witnessed such a situation. If BJP MLAs can resort to violence in the Assembly, what will they do outside?"
Opposition Parties Level Serious Accusations Against BJP
Congress MLAs accused the BJP government of failing to ensure women's safety and claimed the Assembly disruption was an attempt to divert attention from this issue. Congress demanded the suspension of the BJP MLAs and asserted their continued fight for the rights of the poor, tribals, and women.
BJP Counters Opposition's Allegations
BJP MLA Ashok Mahanta retaliated, stating, "The people of Odisha have entrusted the BJP with the responsibility of governance, but the opposition parties are constantly disrupting the Assembly proceedings." He alleged that opposition MLAs attempted to assault a minister, which he deemed unacceptable.
Assembly Proceedings Adjourned
Despite Speaker Surma Padi's attempts to restore order, the uproar continued. Consequently, he adjourned the Assembly proceedings. Subsequently, separate meetings were held by BJP and Congress MLAs to strategize their next steps.
