Farmers’ issues trigger uproar in Odisha Assembly; House adjourned ahead of Budget presentation

The Odisha Legislative Assembly witnessed chaotic scenes on Friday as opposition members staged protests over farmers’ issues, leading to the adjournment of the House shortly after proceedings began.

As soon as the Assembly convened for the day, opposition legislators rushed into the well of the House, holding placards and raising slogans over alleged concerns related to farmers. Despite repeated appeals by Speaker Surama Padhy to maintain order and allow Question Hour to continue, the protesting members refused to return to their seats.

Amid the uproar, the House functioned for barely six minutes before the Speaker adjourned the proceedings until 11:30 am.

Ruling Party Criticises Disruption

The ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) criticised the opposition for stalling legislative business. Party leaders stated that the government was prepared to hold a discussion on farmers’ issues but alleged that the opposition was unwilling to engage in a structured debate inside the House.

Budget Presentation Scheduled

The disruption comes on a crucial day, as the State Budget for the financial year 2026–27 is scheduled to be presented later in the afternoon. Chief Minister Mohan Majhi is slated to table the annual budget in the Assembly.

Last year, the State Government had proposed a budget outlay of Rs 2.90 lakh crore. This year, the budget size is estimated to increase to around Rs 3.20 lakh crore, reflecting a significant rise in allocation.

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With major financial announcements expected, attention now turns to the post-lunch session of the Assembly, even as political tensions over farmers’ issues continue to dominate proceedings.