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State Initiates Reservation Exercise

The Odisha Panchayati Raj Department has initiated preparations for the 2027 Panchayat elections by issuing directives to all district collectors to begin the process of seat reservation. Instructions have been given to determine reservations for Ward Members, Sarpanches, Panchayat Samiti Members, and Zilla Parishad Members.

Officials have been asked to submit the final reservation report to the State Election Commission by April 2026.

Timeline for Objections and Finalisation

As per the schedule, objections to the draft reservation list for Ward Members, Sarpanches, and Samiti Members can be submitted by the 17th of the month. Hearings on these objections will be completed by the 24th, and the final reservation list will be submitted by the 29th.

Similarly, for Zilla Parishad Members, objections can be filed by the 17th, hearings will continue until the 27th, and the final list will be approved by the government and submitted to the Election Commission by the 30th.

For Zilla Parishad Chairpersons, the draft notification will be issued on the 13th, while the final notification will be published on the 29th.

Reservation Limits and Quotas

The reservation policy will follow previous norms, ensuring that total reservation remains within 50 percent. Other Backward Classes (OBCs) will receive up to 27 percent reservation, while 50 percent of seats will be reserved for women across categories.

No Panchayat Reorganisation Before Polls

The state government has decided not to undertake any reorganisation or delimitation of Panchayats or Blocks before the 2027 elections. Panchayati Raj Minister Rabi Narayan Naik stated that the decision was taken due to constitutional constraints and the lack of updated population data.

Political Parties Begin Ground Preparation

Meanwhile, political parties have started gearing up for the upcoming elections. The Bharatiya Janata Party has launched a “Gaon Chalo” campaign until the 12th of this month, aiming to strengthen its grassroots presence. Party leaders are conducting village-level meetings and explaining development plans to the public.

On the other hand, the Biju Janata Dal has announced that its leader Naveen Patnaik will soon tour districts across the state to highlight alleged failures of the current government.

Election Buzz Gains Momentum

With administrative processes underway and political activities intensifying, the stage is gradually being set for the 2027 Panchayat elections in Odisha, which are expected to witness strong competition at the grassroots level.

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Discussion Held at Naveen Niwas

Legislators and senior party functionaries of the Biju Janata Dal (BJD) from Jajpur district met party president Naveen Patnaik at Naveen Niwas on Tuesday morning. The meeting focused on the changing political scenario in the district, organizational activities, and developmental issues.

Concerns Over Development Slowdown

According to a press statement issued by party sources, leaders expressed concern over an alleged slowdown in development work in Jajpur after the new government assumed office. They claimed that governance and execution of projects in the district have been adversely affected.

Allegations Against BJP Government

The BJD leaders also alleged that the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) government has curtailed the powers of elected representatives in panchayats and urban local bodies. They stated that this has worsened administrative efficiency and hindered grassroots-level governance.

Law and Order Situation Raised

Party members further highlighted a deterioration in the law and order situation in the district, attributing it to increased political interference. They expressed concern that common people, especially women, are feeling increasingly unsafe.

Naveen Patnaik Expresses Concern

Taking note of these issues, Naveen Patnaik expressed deep concern over the situation. He advised party leaders and workers to continue serving the people despite challenging circumstances.

Call to Strengthen Party Organization

Patnaik also shared his strategic views on strengthening the party’s organizational structure at the grassroots level. He emphasized unity and coordinated efforts to address current challenges.

Key Leaders Present at the Meeting

Prominent leaders who attended the meeting included Opposition Chief Whip Pramila Mallik, Bari MLA Biswaranjan Mallik, Jajpur MLA Sujata Sahu, former minister Pranab Prakash Das, Pritiranjan Ghadai, former MP Sarmistha Sethi, former MLA Pranab Balabantaray, and Captain S.K. Mohapatra, among others.

Commitment to Public Service

Despite the prevailing political challenges, BJD leaders reiterated their commitment to continue serving the people of Jajpur and addressing their concerns effectively.

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Growing Factionalism Reaches Peak
The internal conflict within the Biju Janata Dal (BJD) has reportedly reached its peak, with rising tensions within the party following its setback in the 2024 general elections. The situation has intensified with allegations of internal power struggles and leadership maneuvering within the party.

Resignation of Rajya Sabha Leader Sparks Debate
In a significant development, Rajya Sabha leader Sasmit Patra has stepped down from his position as the leader of the party in the Upper House. His resignation has triggered widespread discussions within political circles, with many questioning whether he was forced to resign or stepped down voluntarily. Patra had been serving in the role since July 2022.

Allegations of Internal Power Politics
Party insiders suggest that the resignation may be linked to internal party dynamics and influence wielded by BJD’s unofficial power center, VK Pandian. It is alleged that Pandian’s close associate, MP Manas Mangaraj, played a role in orchestrating efforts to remove Patra from his post. However, there has been no official confirmation of these claims.

Confusion Over Leadership Transition
Sources within the party indicate that a group of MPs had written to party supremo Naveen Patnaik requesting Patra’s removal. While Patra reportedly submitted a written resignation to the party leadership, clarity remains lacking on whether the decision was accepted or communicated to the Rajya Sabha Chairman.

Controversy Around Replacement and Roles
With the induction of new Rajya Sabha MP Santrupta Mishra, discussions have emerged about a possible restructuring within the party’s parliamentary and organizational roles. Speculation is rife that Mishra may be assigned responsibilities in Delhi, while Mangaraj could play a key role in Odisha-based party affairs.

Pandian’s Alleged Strategic Influence
VK Pandian is said to be actively shaping internal party strategy behind the scenes. Reports suggest that he has been meeting party leaders and assigning roles to his close associates, thereby consolidating influence over party operations.

Concerns Over Marginalization of Senior Leaders
The ongoing developments have raised concerns within the party regarding the sidelining of senior and experienced leaders. Critics argue that such moves could weaken the party’s internal structure and long-term stability.

Growing Discontent Within the Party
The situation has led to increasing dissatisfaction among party members, with many questioning the rationale behind these decisions. Observers believe that the recent leadership changes and internal power shifts could further intensify factionalism within the BJD in the coming days.

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Session Held in Two Phases for 22 Days
The Odisha Legislative Assembly’s Budget Session concluded today, earlier than scheduled. The session, which began on February 17 and was originally slated to continue until April 8, saw a total of 22 sitting days across two phases.

Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi presented the state Budget for the financial year 2026–27 on February 20.

Frequent Disruptions and Opposition Protests
The proceedings were marked by repeated disruptions. In the first phase, opposition members protested over alleged irregularities in paddy procurement, leading to several days of stalled House proceedings.

In the second phase, opposition parties continued protests for nine consecutive days, demanding the resignation of the Health Minister over the SCB Medical College fire incident. As a result, much of the legislative business could not function normally.

Despite the disruptions, opposition members participated in discussions on the Appropriation Bill.

Key Legislative Business Completed
On the final day, the Assembly witnessed nearly four hours of discussions before passing the Odisha Government Universities Cadre Reservation Bill, 2026. The bill aims to ensure reservation policies in teaching appointments by treating each state-run university as a single unit.

However, the bill related to salary hikes for ministers and MLAs, as well as pensions for former legislators, was withdrawn after several members demanded a review. Parliamentary Affairs Minister Mukesh Mahaling stated that the decision was taken following calls for reconsideration.

Discussion on Reservation and Vacancy Concerns
Higher Education Minister Suryabanshi Suraj highlighted that while central institutions follow a unified reservation system, Odisha lacked such a framework for its state universities.

He also pointed out that out of 2,086 sanctioned teaching posts in state universities, only 659 are currently filled, emphasizing the need for legislation to address vacancies and ensure representation of SC, ST, SEBC, and other categories.

Opposition Demands and Debate
Opposition leaders, including Ranendra Pratap Swain, Arun Kumar Sahoo, Ashok Das, Dhruva Charan Sahu, and Ganeshwar Behera, demanded that the bill be referred to a Select Committee for further review. However, the government argued for its immediate implementation due to its importance.

The Speaker later allowed discussions, but the opposition strongly opposed the bill.

Tributes and Adjournment
The House also witnessed discussions on Biju Babu in the morning session, followed by extensive debates on the budget and the reservation bill.

In his closing remarks, Chief Minister Majhi thanked all members for their participation. Opposition Chief Whip Pramila Mallik and Congress MLA Ashok Das also expressed gratitude on behalf of their respective parties.

At 12:41 AM, the Speaker adjourned the House sine die, marking the end of the Budget Session after a turbulent yet productive legislative period.

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Bhubaneswar – The Odisha Legislative Assembly witnessed dramatic scenes on Tuesday as Opposition members staged a united protest, bringing proceedings to a complete standstill. Legislators from both the Biju Janata Dal (BJD) and Congress entered the well of the House wearing black T-shirts with bold slogans, intensifying the political confrontation.

Black T-Shirts and Slogans Rock the House

The protestors donned black attire displaying the message, “Weak Chief Minister, Powerful Health Minister,” targeting the state leadership. The coordinated demonstration led to chaos inside the Assembly, forcing the Speaker to adjourn the House until 11:30 am.

SCB Fire Incident Sparks Outrage

The agitation stems from the recent fire outbreak at SCB Medical College and Hospital, which the Opposition alleges is a result of gross negligence and systemic failure in the state’s healthcare system. Opposition leaders have demanded immediate accountability, including the resignation of the Health Minister.

Opposition Vows Continued Agitation

Calling the protest a fight for accountability, a senior Opposition leader said the agitation would continue until action is taken. “We will not allow the government to escape responsibility when lives have been put at risk,” the leader stated.

Rare Unity Between BJD and Congress

The joint protest by BJD and Congress signals a rare show of unity on a critical public issue. Political observers believe this alignment could strengthen Opposition pressure on the ruling party in the coming days.

Government Accuses Opposition of Disruption

The ruling party, however, dismissed the protest as political drama, accusing the Opposition of deliberately stalling legislative work. Government spokespersons argued that such disruptions waste public resources and hinder meaningful debate in the Assembly.

Assembly Turns Into Political Battleground

With neither side willing to back down, the Assembly session has turned into a high-voltage political battleground. The SCB fire incident continues to dominate the discourse, casting a shadow over legislative proceedings and escalating tensions between the government and the Opposition.

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Bhubaneswar – In a surprising shift from his traditionally reserved style, BJD supremo and Leader of Opposition Naveen Patnaik has adopted a more active and engaging approach inside the Odisha Legislative Assembly, sparking discussions across political circles.

From Silent Strategist to Active Leader

For over two decades, Naveen Patnaik was known for his minimalistic communication style, often letting his actions speak louder than words. However, this week, Assembly proceedings revealed a different side of the veteran leader—one who is actively interacting, gesturing, and engaging in informal “khanti” discussions with party legislators.

Informal Interactions Signal Shift

During a House adjournment on Monday, Patnaik was seen in close बातचीत with several MLAs, including Ganeswar Behera, Barsha Singh Bariha, and Sarada Jena. Observers noted a visible change in his demeanour, as he greeted colleagues warmly and spent time discussing party organisation and grassroots morale.

Addressing Setbacks and Cross-Voting Row

Sources indicate that discussions revolved around recent political setbacks, particularly the Rajya Sabha elections and allegations of cross-voting within the party. In a rare candid moment, Patnaik reportedly reassured his colleagues, remarking that such incidents are part of political life.

He also reflected on his early political journey, recalling challenges and instances of betrayal since entering politics in 1996, and emphasized that those who undermine the party cannot claim the legacy of Biju Patnaik.

Strategic Move Amid Political Pressure

Political analysts view this transformation as a strategic response to recent challenges faced by the BJD, including the 2024 general election setback and internal discord. By stepping out of his traditionally reserved role, Patnaik appears to be reasserting direct leadership and reconnecting with party members.

Clear Message to Party Cadre

Patnaik reportedly urged party workers and legislators to move beyond past defeats, focus on strengthening their presence in constituencies, and hold the current government accountable on public issues. His message underscores a renewed emphasis on grassroots engagement and political accountability.

A New Phase for BJD Leadership

Whether this shift represents a natural evolution or a calculated political move, it signals a new phase in Naveen Patnaik’s leadership style. The once “silent enigma” now appears more vocal, visible, and determined to steer the BJD through a challenging political landscape.

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Odisha’s political landscape has been thrown into turmoil following allegations of cross-voting in the recent Rajya Sabha elections, with both the Biju Janata Dal (BJD) and the Indian National Congress (INC) suspending several of their MLAs.

BJD Takes Strong Action Against Six Legislators

The BJD, led by Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik, suspended six MLAs—Subasini Jena, Navkishore Mallik, Saubhik Biswal, Ramakant Bhoi, Debiranjan Tripathy, and Chakramani Kahar—for allegedly defying the party whip and supporting candidates backed by the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP).

Congress Also Acts Against Senior Leaders

In a parallel move, the Congress suspended three of its senior MLAs—Sofia Firdous, Ramesh Jena, and Dasarathi Gamango—on similar charges of cross-voting, indicating a wider breakdown of party discipline across opposition ranks.

BJP Emerges as Political Gainer

The developments have created a political vacuum that the BJP appears to be capitalising on, particularly in rural strongholds. With internal discord weakening opposition parties, the BJP is reportedly expanding its influence ahead of the upcoming panchayat elections.

Parties Warn of Legal Action Under Anti-Defection Law

Reacting strongly, Odisha Pradesh Congress Committee President Bhakta Charan Das termed the cross-voting a “betrayal” and hinted at further action under the anti-defection provisions of the Tenth Schedule.

Meanwhile, BJD Chief Whip Pramila Mallik warned that the party may move court seeking disqualification of the rebel MLAs to uphold party discipline.

Suspended MLAs Cry Foul

Some of the suspended legislators have pushed back against the action. BJD MLA Ramakant Bhoi described the decision as “unfortunate” and alleged that the voting process was conducted under coercion.

Political Uncertainty Ahead of Panchayat Elections

With both legal and political battles looming, Odisha’s political environment is entering a volatile phase. As parties regroup and realign, the electorate—especially in rural areas—faces a shifting landscape where traditional loyalties are being tested.

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Internal tensions within the Indian National Congress in Odisha have escalated following allegations of cross-voting during the recent Rajya Sabha elections 2026. Party leaders have now moved to seek disqualification of certain MLAs accused of defying the party whip.

Petition Filed Against MLA Ramesh Chandra Jena

Senior Congress leaders, including Ramchandra Kadam, Bhakta Charan Das, and CS Rajan Ekka, met the Assembly Speaker and submitted a petition seeking disqualification of Ramesh Chandra Jena under the anti-defection law.

The move comes after Jena allegedly went against the party directive during the March 16 Rajya Sabha polls.

Cross-Voting Allegations Rock Party Unity

The controversy centres around claims that Jena, along with Sofia Firdous and Dasarathi Gamango, supported a candidate backed by the Bharatiya Janata Party, defying the Congress party line.

Congress leaders argue that such actions violate party discipline and undermine the democratic mandate.

Accusations and Counter-Claims Intensify

While Congress leaders have termed the act as a “betrayal,” Bhakta Charan Das accused Jena of harming the party’s interests. However, Jena has strongly refuted the allegations, claiming that his actions were guided by conscience.

He alleged irregularities in the process and said his decision was a response to past political pressures. “I could not support a candidate backed by the Biju Janata Dal,” he reportedly stated.

Similar Action Sought Against Other MLAs

Petitions have also been filed against Sofia Firdous and Dasarathi Gamango, with the party leadership pushing for their disqualification as well. The Congress maintains that strict action is necessary to preserve internal discipline and credibility.

Speaker Yet to Decide on Disqualification Pleas

The matter now rests with the Assembly Speaker, who is yet to take a final call on the petitions. The decision will be crucial in determining the political future of the accused MLAs and the stability of the party in the state.

Political Fallout After BJP Victory

The row comes in the wake of a win by a BJP-backed candidate in the Rajya Sabha elections, intensifying political friction in Odisha. The episode has exposed deep divisions within the state Congress unit and raised questions about its internal cohesion.

Growing Crisis Within Odisha Congress

With accusations of conspiracy, rebellion, and indiscipline surfacing, the Odisha Congress faces a growing internal crisis. The outcome of the Speaker’s decision could have far-reaching implications for the party’s unity and future political strategy in the state.

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