The Opposition parties, Biju Janata Dal (BJD) and Indian National Congress (INC), expressed dissatisfaction with Governor Hari Babu Kambhampati’s speech in the Odisha Assembly during the Budget Session. Both Congress and BJD members walked out in protest against the address. Leader of Opposition Naveen Patnaik criticized the Governor’s speech, calling it strong in words but weak in action, and highlighted concerns about the law-and-order situation, particularly incidents of mob lynching.
Congress Legislature Party leader Rama Chandra Kadam also criticized the government, stating a lack of alignment between government statements and the Governor’s address. The ruling BJP countered, accusing the opposition of being unable to accept the state’s progress under the current administration. Governor Kambhampati outlined the state government’s development goals in various sectors, aiming for a developed Odisha by 2036, the state’s centenary year.
The Governor emphasized the government’s initiatives in agriculture, industry, education, infrastructure, tourism, healthcare, and IT sectors. The Budget Session will include a two-day discussion on the Governor’s address, with the State Budget presentation scheduled for February 20 by Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi. The session of the 17th Odisha Assembly is set to conclude on April 8, with 28 working days planned in two phases.
