Odisha Assembly Calls for Discussion on MMDRA Amendments Ahead of Monsoon Session

Bhubaneswar, September 21 (Daily Kiran) : Bhubaneswar’s assembly speaker, Surama Padhi, convened an all-party meeting on Monday to prepare for the upcoming monsoon session. She urged all political parties to collaborate for smooth proceedings in the house.

Attendees included Deputy Speaker Bhawani Shankar Bhoi, Deputy Chief Minister Kanak Vardhan Singh Deo, and senior leaders from various parties, including the opposition’s deputy leader, Prasanna Acharya.

After the meeting, Biju Janata Dal (BJD) senior leader and chief whip, Pramila Malik, addressed the media, highlighting the need for a discussion on the damages caused to the state due to the MMDRA amendments. She stated that the opposition has submitted a proposal for a detailed discussion on this matter.

Malik insisted that the government either allow a discussion on the BJD’s proposal or introduce a thank-you motion to facilitate dialogue on the issue. She mentioned that the assembly speaker assured her that her request would be considered. The next steps will depend on the speaker’s decision.

Senior Congress MLA Ashok Das stated that his party plans to raise issues related to the interests of Odisha, including the MMDRA amendment act, during the upcoming session.

Parliamentary Affairs Minister Mukesh Mahaling assured that the state government is ready to discuss issues raised in the assembly. He reiterated the speaker’s appeal for all members to work together for a peaceful and orderly session.

Mahaling noted that six bills have been submitted for consideration, but the assembly advisory committee will determine which bills receive priority and how much time will be allocated for discussion.

Regarding the MMDRA amendment act, Mahaling confirmed that a proposal has been submitted to the assembly speaker for a discussion on the matter. He added, “The speaker will decide the priority and format for discussion. We are prepared for whatever form of discussion is permitted.”

The seventh session of Odisha’s 17th Assembly will commence on September 22 and run until October 3.