Odisha Assembly Prepares for Monsoon Session: Key Discussions on MMDR Amendment Expected

All-Party Meeting Sets the Stage for Assembly Session

Bhubaneswar: On Monday, Odisha Assembly Speaker Surama Padhy organized a meeting with representatives from all political parties to discuss the upcoming session of the state Assembly, emphasizing the need for cooperation to ensure effective proceedings.

The meeting saw participation from Deputy Speaker Bhabani Shankar Bhoi, Deputy Chief Minister Kanak Vardhan Singh Deo, Deputy Leader of Opposition Prasanna Acharya, along with other prominent leaders.

After the meeting, Pramila Mallik, the Opposition Chief Whip and a senior leader of the Biju Janata Dal (BJD), informed the media that the Speaker addressed strategies for a smooth operation during the nine-day monsoon session.

Mallik stated, “As the opposition, we have urged for a discussion regarding the losses incurred by the state due to the MMDR Amendment. We have put forth a motion for a comprehensive discussion on this matter.”

She further insisted that the government should either facilitate a discussion on the BJD's motion or initiate a motion of thanks. The Speaker assured her that the request would be considered, indicating that the party's next steps would hinge on the Speaker's ruling.

Congress MLA Ashok Das remarked that his party intends to bring up issues vital to Odisha, including the MMDR Amendment Act, and will seek discussions in the Assembly during the forthcoming session.

Parliamentary Affairs Minister Mukesh Mahaling confirmed that the state government is prepared to address the issues raised in the Assembly. He noted that the Speaker has called on all members to ensure a peaceful and productive session.

Mahaling stated, “All Bills and issues presented during the session should be discussed in a constructive manner.”

He mentioned that the Assembly has received notices for six Bills so far, but the Advisory Committee will determine their priority and the time allocated for discussion.

Regarding the MMDR Amendment Act, Mahaling indicated that a motion has been submitted to the Speaker for discussion. “The Speaker will decide the priority and format for the discussion. We are ready to engage in whatever format the Speaker allows,” he added.

The seventh session of the 17th Odisha Assembly is set to commence on September 22 and will run until October 3.