BJD Workers Clash with Police Over Panchayat Powers in Odisha

Tensions escalated in Bhubaneswar on Tuesday as Biju Janata Dal (BJD) workers clashed with police during a protest against recent amendments to the Odisha Panchayat Samiti Accounting Rules, 2002. The amendments, introduced by the ruling BJP government, have been criticized for allegedly diminishing the authority of elected Panchayati Raj institutions.

The controversy centers on provisions that empower state-appointed officials, such as Block Development Officers (BDOs) and engineers, to approve projects without the countersignature of elected block chairpersons. Additionally, the delegation of administrative approval powers to zilla parishad executive officers has raised concerns among local representatives. The government asserts that these changes aim to expedite project approvals and ensure timely implementation of developmental programs.

In response, BJD workers gathered at Mahatma Gandhi Marg in Bhubaneswar, intending to march towards the state assembly. Police deployed tear gas to disperse the crowd, leading to the detention of several senior BJD leaders. Prior to the protest, BJD Members of the Legislative Assembly (MLAs) had disrupted proceedings in the state assembly, prompting Speaker Surama Padhy to adjourn the session.

BJD leaders, including Arun Kumar Sahoo, have condemned the amendments, alleging that the BJP government is undermining the autonomy of local governance structures. They argue that the changes centralize power and diminish the role of elected representatives in decision-making processes.

The ongoing standoff highlights the growing friction between the state government and opposition parties over the balance of power in local governance. As the situation develops, further protests and political debates are anticipated.