Odisha Assembly Erupts Over Reservation Quotas

The Odisha assembly faced protests by Congress and BJP members over alleged improper reservation for ST, SC, and OBC candidates in technical and medical admissions. Congress leader Rama Chandra Kadam highlighted the disproportionate quotas and demanded a caste census. The assembly was adjourned until 4 pm amid the chaos.

The Odisha assembly on Saturday erupted in protests from Congress and BJP members, who alleged improper reservation quotas for ST, SC, and OBC candidates in admissions to technical institutions and medical courses. The session was subsequently adjourned until 4 pm.

Congress Legislature Party Leader Rama Chandra Kadam raised the issue during the Zero Hour, claiming that ST, SC, and OBC students were being deprived of their constitutional quota entitlements. Kadam pointed out that 94 per cent of the state's population belonged to these categories, yet they were not receiving appropriate reservations.

The protesting Congress members demanded a caste census to facilitate proper quota provisions. Despite appeals from Speaker Surama Padhy, the house proceedings were disrupted, leading to adjournment. When the assembly reconvened, the agitating Congress members staged a dharna near the Mahatma Gandhi statue within the Vidhan Sabha premises.

(With inputs from agencies.)