Odisha Budget Session Begins Amid Showdown

Bhubaneswar: The Budget Session of the Odisha Legislative Assembly commenced on Monday amid expectations of heated exchanges between the ruling party and the opposition. The opposition parties — the Biju Janata Dal (BJD) and the Congress — have announced plans to corner the government on a range of key public issues, while the treasury benches have asserted that they are fully prepared to counter the criticism.

The session will be conducted in two phases. The first phase is scheduled from February 17 to February 24, followed by the second phase from March 9 to April 8. Governor Dr. Hari Babu Kambhampati will address the House on the opening day, outlining the government’s policy priorities.

Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi, who also holds the Finance portfolio, is slated to present the State Budget for the financial year 2026–27 on February 20. The general discussion on the budget proposals will take place on February 23 and 24.

With 29 working days scheduled, the session is expected to witness intense debates and frequent confrontations between the ruling and opposition members. The opposition has drawn up a detailed strategy to raise several pressing issues, including paddy procurement irregularities, alleged mandi mismanagement, concerns over women’s safety, the law and order situation, and inter-state disputes related to Polavaram and the Mahanadi river.

Political observers note that the opposition’s floor coordination and the Speaker’s ability to ensure smooth proceedings will be closely watched during the session. Meanwhile, the ruling party has reportedly formulated its own strategy to defend its record and respond to the allegations raised by the opposition.

As the Assembly convenes, all eyes will be on how the government navigates the challenges posed by a determined opposition in what is likely to be a crucial and closely monitored budget session.