Odisha Assembly Adjourned Amid BJD Protests Over Fertiliser Shortage

The Odisha Assembly faced significant disruption on August 26, 2023, as opposition members from the Biju Janata Dal (BJD) protested against the state government’s handling of fertiliser scarcity and alleged black marketing. The uproar, occurring on the third day of the Monsoon Session, led to the adjournment of the House until 16:00 local time.

The session commenced with Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi presenting a condolence motion for the late George Tirkey, a former MLA from Biramitrapur. This motion received support from Deputy Leader of Opposition Prasanna Acharya and Congress CLP leader Rama Chandra Kadam. Tirkey passed away earlier that morning, prompting the initial formalities of the day.

As the Question Hour began, BJD members, equipped with placards and banners, stormed the well of the Assembly, vocally expressing their grievances regarding the government’s failure to ensure adequate fertiliser supply for farmers. Speaker Surama Padhy intervened, urging the opposition to return to their seats and allow the proceedings to continue. Despite her requests, the protests intensified, contributing to a chaotic atmosphere that ultimately forced her to suspend the session.

The BJD has accused the government of neglecting the agricultural sector, claiming that farmers are now compelled to purchase fertiliser from the open market at significantly inflated prices. They argue that this situation has fostered an environment of black marketing in Odisha, leading to their demand for a dedicated discussion on the issue while calling for the suspension of regular House activities.

In response to the unrest, Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leader Irasis Acharya criticized the opposition, asserting that the BJD and Congress are not genuinely invested in the development of Odisha. He suggested that the opposition’s reluctance to engage in a debate stems from a fear of being “exposed” regarding their positions and actions. Acharya emphasized that the BJP remains the only party committed to supporting farmers in the state.

The assembly’s proceedings were also disrupted the previous day, as BJD members raised similar concerns over fertiliser shortages and black marketing, leading to the suspension of business on that occasion as well. The ongoing protests highlight the escalating tensions surrounding agricultural policies in Odisha and the implications for farmers facing economic struggles.

As the session resumes later today, all eyes will be on whether the government will address the BJD’s concerns and what measures may be proposed to alleviate the fertiliser crisis affecting local farmers.