The BJP-led Odisha cabinet has approved a major hike in the financial powers of Block Development Officers (BDOs). While the government calls it a step to ease development processes, the opposition BJD has condemned it as an attack on grassroots democracy and the Panchayati Raj system.

BJD Slams the Move as “Undemocratic”

At a press conference in Shankha Bhawan, BJD MLA Arun Sahu and party Vice-President Pratap Jena strongly criticized the decision. They labelled the move “undemocratic” and “unconstitutional,” arguing that it strips elected representatives of their rightful authority.

During the BJD’s 24-year rule, chairpersons of Panchayat Samitis were empowered to co-sign bills above ₹2 lakh, ensuring transparency and community oversight. The new policy, however, gives BDOs sole authority to sign bills up to ₹10 lakh without the chairperson’s approval.

Concentration of Power in Bureaucracy

Since most block-level projects are valued below ₹10 lakh, the BJD claims the change sidelines elected officials and hands unchecked authority to state-appointed officers.

Arun Sahu described the decision as “an attack on democratic values rooted in the 73rd Constitutional Amendment,” which introduced Panchayati Raj institutions.

Pratap Jena went further, accusing the BJP of fostering a “bureaucratic raj” where officers are pressured to collect commissions. He alleged that corruption is already rife in Odisha’s 314 blocks, where tender processes are often manipulated.

Political Context and Rising Tensions

The BJD views the decision as a targeted political strategy. Despite losing 61 assembly seats in 2024, the party still controls most Panchayat Samiti chairperson posts across Odisha. According to BJD leaders, this policy undermines their grassroots stronghold.

In response, the party is preparing for state-wide protests, mobilising block chairpersons, samiti members, and sarpanches to demand the withdrawal of the decision.

Rural Heartland at Stake

With nearly 83% of Odisha’s 46 million population residing in rural areas, the fight for control over Panchayati Raj institutions is critical. BJD fears that disempowering local leaders may fuel rebellion and destabilise the newly formed BJP government led by Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi.

BJP Defends Policy as Development-Oriented

On the other side, the BJP maintains that the decision aims to cut bureaucratic red tape and accelerate project execution. The party argues that simplifying procedures will benefit rural development.

However, with 6,794 panchayats managing a combined annual budget of nearly ₹5,000 crore, critics argue that concentrating financial powers with BDOs risks alienating elected representatives. This, they warn, could drive grassroots leaders closer to opposition parties like BJD and Congress.

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