Bhubaneswar, August 29: The Odisha Assembly was adjourned until 4 pm on Thursday after BJD members created ruckus demanding that their notice for an adjournment motion on developmental works in the blocks be taken up for debate.
The BJD members stormed the well of the House, shouting slogans and disrupted business during zero hour in protest against Speaker Surama Padhi’s refusal to accept their adjournment notice.
BJD members Arun Sahu and Ganeswar Behera alleged that developmental work in all 314 blocks of Odisha had stagnated over the past two months, attributing the halt to an unwritten directive from the government. They insisted on a discussion via the adjournment motion, arguing it was crucial for the state's welfare.
The Speaker declined the request, stating that the issue was not related to a specific recent incident and did not qualify as an urgent matter. Despite her appeal for the members to resume their seats, the BJD legislators persisted with their protest, even attempting to approach the Speaker's podium.
Parliamentary Affairs Minister Mukesh Mahaling supported the Speaker's decision, emphasizing that it was final and calling for respect towards the chair. He urged the protesting members to return to their seats and participate in the ongoing proceedings.
As the BJD members continued their demonstration, the Speaker had no choice but to adjourn the Assembly at 12. 10 pm until 16 pm.
