The Odisha Assembly faced disruptions as Biju Janata Dal (BJD) and Indian National Congress (INC) members protested about issues at Mandis and the Epstein files. During the Question Hour, BJD members accused the state government of mismanaging paddy procurement, while Congress members demanded discussions on the Epstein files. The opposition criticized Union Minister Hardeep Singh Puri and Prime Minister Narendra Modi over the Epstein issue.
The disruptions led to multiple adjournments by Speaker Surama Padhy, who urged opposition members to allow the house to function. Despite appeals, the protests continued, resulting in the suspension of proceedings until 4 pm. An all-party meeting was called by the Speaker to resolve the deadlock that had persisted since the start of the budget session on February 17.
Senior BJD leader Dibya Shankar Mishra condemned the state government’s handling of the situation, announcing plans for a major protest in Bhubaneswar the following day. Mishra criticized the government for neglecting farmers despite rising input costs and unfulfilled promises like free electricity and increased MSP. He demanded loan waivers, removal of procurement limits, and support for farmers facing challenges in agricultural production.
