Following a strong protest by journalists, the Odisha government has lifted the restriction on carrying mobile phones inside the State Assembly.
Minister Suryabanshi Suraj confirmed the decision, stating that while the ban on mobile phones has been lifted, restrictions on photography and video recording from the media gallery remain in place.
The decision came after journalists boycotted the Assembly proceedings and staged a dharna near the Mahatma Gandhi statue on the Assembly premises. The protest was in response to security personnel preventing journalists from carrying mobile phones into the House, which hindered their ability to perform their professional duties.
The government has assured that mobile phones will be allowed in silent mode, and the Information and Public Relations Department will provide adequate photos of the Question Hour to media organizations. The Assembly will also organize an orientation program for journalists covering the proceedings.
