The Odisha Assembly opened its winter session on Thursday with a condolence motion for departed members.
Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi moved the proposal, and opposition leaders supported it. After a one-minute silent prayer, Speaker Surama Padhy adjourned the House until 4:30 PM.
Later in the afternoon, President Droupadi Murmu will address the Assembly from 4:30 PM to 5:30 PM. Her speech marks a historic moment in the session’s opening and sets the tone for upcoming discussions.
The winter session will continue until December 31, covering 29 working days. Lawmakers from all parties joined the proceedings, and they will debate key legislative and financial matters. On Friday, the Finance Minister will present the first supplementary budget for the 2025–26 fiscal year. Subsequently, members will discuss expenditure demands, and the Appropriation Bill is expected to pass on December 8.
Traditionally, the Assembly sits for 60 days annually. However, in the past two sessions, the House met for 31 days. This winter calendar includes 29 days, though the duration may extend depending on supplementary budget discussions.
Before the session began, Speaker Surama Padhy convened an all-party meeting to ensure smooth conduct. Chief Minister Mohan Majhi, Deputy Chief Minister Kanak Vardhan Singh Deo, Parliamentary Affairs Minister Mukesh Mahaling, senior ministers, and leaders from BJD and Congress attended. The Speaker urged all parties to cooperate and maintain order during the proceedings.
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