Odisha Assembly Monsoon Session Opens Amid Uproar Over Textbooks, MMDR Act
Odisha Assembly's Monsoon Session began with disruptions as BJD and Congress protested over textbook errors and the MMDR Amendment Act, 2026, forcing an adjournment.
The Monsoon Session of the Odisha Assembly opened on a turbulent note, with the Biju Janata Dal and the Congress confronting the Mohan Majhi government over two contentious issues.
Opposition members repeatedly disrupted proceedings, rushing to the well of the House to press the government for answers. The BJD demanded the resignation of School and Mass Education Minister Nityananda Gond over the distribution of error-ridden textbooks for the current academic year. Corrected textbooks have begun reaching students, but nearly half the academic year has already elapsed.
Congress legislators focused on the Mines and Minerals (Development and Regulation) Amendment Act, 2026, arguing that the Centre had eroded the State's authority over its mineral resources. They called for the amendments to be withdrawn and sought details of the revenue the State stands to lose once the changes take effect.
With protests mounting, Speaker Surama Padhy adjourned the proceedings. The BJD subsequently carried its agitation outside the Assembly, holding a demonstration at Lower PMG Square in front of the House.
The session is scheduled to run until October 3, during which the government intends to introduce six Bills.