Patnaik Urges BJD MLAs to Vigilantly Hold Government Accountable

Naveen Patnaik, the Leader of Opposition in Odisha Assembly, instructed Biju Janata Dal (BJD) MLAs to utilize all parliamentary tools to hold the state government accountable. Speaking at a BJD-organized training program, Patnaik emphasized the importance of a vigilant opposition and familiarity with legislative procedures.

Naveen Patnaik, the Leader of Opposition in the Odisha Assembly, has called on Biju Janata Dal (BJD) MLAs to leave no stone unturned in utilizing legislative tools to hold the government accountable. He made these remarks while addressing an orientation and training program for newly elected BJD lawmakers, also attended by senior members of the party. The two-day event took place after BJD boycotted an assembly-organized program, citing protocol breaches.

Highlighting the significance of a vigilant opposition, Patnaik said, 'BJD with 51 MLAs constitutes a formidable opposition. We must use all legislative devices to hold the government to account.' He underscored that both government and opposition owe their mandates to the people, making a vibrant opposition crucial for a healthy democracy.

Patnaik further advised new BJD MLAs to familiarize themselves with rules, procedures, and parliamentary conventions. Quoting B R Ambedkar, he pointed out the role of various legislative devices like questions, motions, and zero hour sessions in ensuring government accountability. He also emphasized the importance of committee work in scrutinizing bills.

(With inputs from agencies.)