Pramila Mallik files nomination, set to become Odisha's first woman Speaker

Biju Janata Dal (BJD) leader and former Revenue and Disaster Management Minister Pramila Mallik on Thursday filed her nomination for the election of Speaker of the Odisha Legislative Assembly. 

The six-time MLA today resigned from Naveen Patnaik's cabinet and filed her nomination for the Odisha Legislative Assembly’s Speaker post. Since the BJD enjoys the majority in the House, Mallik is all set to be the first woman Speaker of the Odisha Legislative Assembly. 

Notably, the Speaker’s election will be held on September 22. Since there is none to contest against her, Mallik is going to be elected as the Odisha Legislative Assembly’s Speaker. 

And, immediately after the election, she will take charge of the Speaker’s post, and preside over the Monsoon Session of the House beginning tomorrow. However, it is believed that she will face several challenges in the House. 

Speaking to media persons after filling her nomination papers, she said, “After the all-party meeting tomorrow, I will hold a discussion with all leaders and request their cooperation for the smooth functioning of the House.”

Meanwhile, School and Mass Education Minister Sudam Marndi has been given the additional charge of the Revenue and Disaster Management Department.