Odisha Dissolves Special Development Councils Ahead of Elections

Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi has dissolved all 23 Special Development Councils, established to preserve tribal culture and identity. Initially formed in 2017, the councils aimed to develop tribal-dominated districts. The move precedes the 2024 elections, with allegations of BJD leaders' appointments in these councils.

Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi has approved the dissolution of all 23 Special Development Councils (SDCs), a decision aimed at tribal culture and heritage preservation, the CMO stated on Wednesday.

Originally formed in 2017 under the BJD administration, the SDCs targeted tribal development in nine key districts: Maurbhanj, Keonjhar, Sundargarh, Gajapati, Kandhamal, Rayagada, Malkangiri, Nabarangpur, and Koraput. In 2023, SDCs were expanded to 14 more districts, seemingly in preparation for the upcoming 2024 elections.

There are allegations that BJD leaders were appointed to leadership positions within these councils.

(With inputs from agencies.)