The monsoon session of the 17th Odisha Legislative Assembly wrapped up one day ahead of schedule on Wednesday, ending prematurely due to a lack of pending government business and the upcoming Navratri festivities.
Originally slated to run from September 16 to September 25, the session was adjourned indefinitely following a proposal by the ruling party’s Chief Whip, Saroj Pradhan.
Speaker Surama Padhy approved the motion, which was supported by MLAs including Sanatan Bijuli, Upasana Mohapatra, and Parliamentary Affairs Minister Dr Mukesh Mahaling.
During the session, two key bills were passed: the Odisha University Amendment Bill, 2025, and the Odisha Goods and Services Tax Amendment Bill, 2025. Additionally, a resolution on GST reforms was adopted, along with a vote of thanks to the Prime Minister.
The session was marked by frequent disruptions from opposition parties, the Biju Janata Dal (BJD) and Congress, who raised various issues leading to chaos in the House. Not a single day saw the Question Hour proceed smoothly. On the final day, two questions were discussed amid the din, but the opposition cooperated in the afternoon, participating in debates on the GST Amendment Bill and proposing amendments. The Zero Hour featured MLAs highlighting multiple concerns, including a BJD-led adjournment motion on the murder of constable Shubhamitra.
The BJD protested over fertiliser shortages in the state and the dominance of bureaucracy in the Panchayati Raj system, stalling proceedings. A notable highlight was the Congress’s no-confidence motion against the state government. Overall, eight starred questions were addressed, two bills and one resolution were passed, and four CAG reports were tabled on the last day.
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