Congress MLA from Barabati-Cuttack, Mohammed Moquim, on Monday staged a symbolic protest near the statue of Mahatma Gandhi against the absence of Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik from the winter session of Odisha Assembly.
The winter session was adjourned sine die abruptly on Friday, effectively washing away all the remaining 17 working days.
The protest by the Congress legislator coincided with the visit of CM Naveen to the Millennium city of Cuttack to distribute Biju Swasthya Kalyan Yojana (BSKY) smart cards and launch several development projects.
“Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik did not attend the winter session of Odisha Assembly for a single day. Many sensitive issues were due for discussion, but the session was adjourned abruptly. However, the CM made no attempt for the smooth functioning of the House,” alleged Moquim.
“Despite being a people’s representative, he disrespected the House. Therefore, I am sitting on dharna beneath the status of Mahatma Gandhi. I am hopeful Gandhiji will enlighten the CM to show some respect to the House and attend the session henceforth to discuss the issues of the public,” Moquim added.
Responding to the allegations, BJD MP Subash Singh said, “Cuttack is now on growth path and the focus should be on the developmental projects being launched by the CM. Both the BJP and Congress party have lost their political existence and therefore bringing such political questions.”
As per reports, the CM today attended a programme organised at the Bali Yatra ground in Cuttack and distributed BSKY smart cards to over 200 beneficiaries. He also rolled out a slew of developmental projects worth over Rs 1500 crore.
“The works have begun to transform the SCB Medical College and Hospital of Cuttack into a world-class health institution. In will become a milestone in the healthcare in coming days,” the CM said where addressing the public.
After attending the programme in Cuttack, the CM proceeded to Begunia in Khordha district and distributed BSKY cards to beneficiaries.