TV
On the occasion of Self-Governance Day today, Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi is expected to announce the formation of new Notified Area Councils (NACs).
The indication was given by Urban Development Minister Krushna Chandra Mahapatra during a programme in Salepur in Cuttack district on Saturday, sparking speculation across the state over which towns could make it to the much-awaited list.
Rising Expectations Over NAC Recognition
With Odisha currently having 115 urban local bodies, including 62 NACs, the possible expansion of the list has triggered anticipation among residents of several towns. Aspirants who were excluded from the first round of notifications are closely watching today’s announcements, while civic circles are abuzz with speculation on the government’s choices.
As per the Chief Minister’s earlier statement, 21 new NACs had been proposed. However, the official notification issued on August 16 covered only 12 towns, with draft notices inviting objections and suggestions from locals within 30 days. The remaining towns are still awaiting confirmation, leaving several regions restless.
In this regard, the Urban Development Minister not only signalled the announcement of the second draft NAC list in one month but also took a dig at the previous BJD government during his speech at the event.
"In their (BJD's) 24 years of governance, they could not create 24 new NACs. But the Mohan Majhi government formed 21 new NACs in just 12 months of governance. On Self-Governance Day on August 31, the CM is going to announce the formation of several new NACs. This is the people-centric government of CM Majhi and the development-oriented double-engine BJP government,” he said.
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Exclusion Sparks Protests Across Districts
Notably, the exclusion of certain areas from the first notification has already led to protests. Earlier this month, Borigumma in Koraput district witnessed a 12-hour bandh called by the Borigumma Nagarika Mancha after the town failed to feature on the NAC list.
The shutdown saw markets, shops, and schools closed while emergency medical services continued.
Similarly, Begunia in Khordha district observed a 6-hour bandh demanding NAC status, with several parties and organisations extending support. Parallel agitations had also been reported from Cuttack’s Salepur, Bolangir and Balasore, reflecting a wider discontent over the selective recognition process.
