Congress, CPI(M) Skip Odisha All-Party Meeting Ahead of Assembly Session

BHUBANESWAR: The opposition Congress and CPI(M) did not attend the all-party meeting convened by Odisha Assembly Speaker Surama Padhy on Sunday, ahead of the upcoming assembly session. The meeting, aimed at fostering cooperation among various political parties, saw the absence of key opposition leaders.

The Biju Janata Dal (BJD) was represented by Chief Whip Pramila Mallik, while Leader of Opposition Naveen Patnaik chose to stay away. The Congress’s absence was attributed to the party’s unresolved leadership issue, with senior MLA Taraprasad Bahinipati citing the lack of clarity on the legislature party leader’s position as the reason for their non-attendance.

The CPI(M) also did not participate, leaving the meeting without the presence of significant opposition voices. This development underscores ongoing tensions and organizational challenges within the opposition parties in Odisha.

The all-party meeting was intended to discuss legislative business and ensure smooth proceedings during the assembly session. The absence of major opposition parties raises concerns about the potential impact on legislative discussions and cooperation.