The Congress party is set to gherao the Odisha State Assembly today, protesting against the rising incidents of violence against women and atrocities against children. This protest follows an overnight sit-in demonstration since Tuesday and aims to hold the government accountable. The demonstration has escalated political tensions in the state, prompting stringent security measures.
Odisha’s Political Landscape
Odisha’s political landscape has been largely dominated by the Biju Janata Dal (BJD) for over two decades, leaving opposition parties like Congress struggling to regain their foothold. While the Congress once had a strong presence in the state, its influence has waned over the years due to shifting voter preferences and the emergence of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) as a formidable challenger to the BJD.
In recent years, the BJP has gained popularity in Odisha through its ambitious development projects and welfare schemes. The party has actively positioned itself as an alternative to the BJD, making Congress’ efforts to remain politically relevant more challenging. Against this backdrop, Congress’ protest against the government’s handling of crimes against women and children is seen as an attempt to re-establish its presence in Odisha’s political discourse.
Heavy Security Deployment for Assembly Gherao
In response to the Congress’ call for protest, the Commissionerate Police have deployed 80 platoons to ensure tight security during the gherao. Authorities have heightened security measures to prevent any untoward incidents, anticipating the possibility of clashes between protestors and law enforcement.
Suspension of Congress MLAs Adds to Political Drama
The protest follows the suspension of all 14 Congress MLAs from the assembly for a week due to alleged disorderly conduct inside the House. The suspensions have fueled tensions, with Congress leaders calling the action undemocratic. The party has vowed to intensify its agitation, further adding to the political unrest in the state.
Congress’ Stand: Demanding Accountability
Odisha Pradesh Congress Committee (OPCC) president Bhakta Charan Das has strongly criticized the government for failing to ensure the safety of women and children. Addressing the media, he stated that Chief Minister Mohan Majhi himself admitted in the assembly that 1,600 cases of crimes against women had been reported under his tenure, and over 40,000 women and children had gone missing since he took office. Congress leaders are demanding accountability from the government, asserting that law and order have deteriorated significantly.
BJP’s Response: Allegations of Disruptive Tactics
The ruling BJP has hit back, accusing Congress of deliberately attempting to disrupt assembly proceedings. Law Minister Prithviraj Harichandan condemned the opposition’s behaviour, calling it “goondaraj” and alleging that Congress members used offensive language, banged gongs and cymbals, and disrupted proceedings with loud protests. He asserted that such actions were unparliamentary and unacceptable.
Assembly Continues Without Opposition Presence
Amid the ongoing turmoil, the state assembly continues its proceedings without opposition representation. While Congress members are protesting outside, the ruling BJD remains actively engaged in legislative discussions. Today’s session is set to cover key issues related to the Water Resources, Revenue, and Commerce departments.
BJP’s Rising Popularity and Congress’ Struggle
While Congress struggles to regain ground, the BJP government has been steadily increasing its popularity through various development projects. The party has launched several ambitious infrastructure, healthcare, and welfare initiatives that have resonated with the electorate. The BJP’s push for industrial growth, investment-friendly policies, and direct benefit schemes have strengthened its political standing in Odisha.
In contrast, Congress’ dwindling support base and internal rifts have made it challenging for the party to mount an effective opposition. The ongoing protests signal an attempt to mobilize support, but whether they will translate into electoral gains remains uncertain.
The Congress’ assembly gherao marks an attempt to reposition itself as a relevant political force in Odisha. While the party raises legitimate concerns about crimes against women and children, its ability to challenge the ruling BJP and BJD remains questionable. The BJP, on the other hand, continues to consolidate its influence through developmental projects, positioning itself as a strong contender in the state’s evolving political landscape. The coming months will determine whether Congress’ efforts can gain momentum or if the political battle in Odisha will continue to be dominated by the BJP and BJD.
(With inputs from agencies)
