By Anurjay Dhal
BHUBANESWAR: The ruling BJD in Odisha will demand inclusion of Other Backward Classes (OBCs) along with the SC and ST list in the NPR format. This is an important component left out of the NPR format which would enable the state government to identify the exact number of OBCs in Odisha as well as the country, the party said on Tuesday.
Ahead of the Budget Session of the Parliament on January 31, BJD Parliamentary Party lead by Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik met here on Tuesday to discuss on the demand to be raised by the party MPs.
Soon after the meeting at Naveen Niwas, BJD Parliamentary Party leader MP Pinaki Mishra informed that the party will demand inclusion of Other Backward Classes (OBCs) along with the SC and ST list in the NPR format. “This is an important component left out of the NPR format which would enable the state government to identify the exact number of OBCs in Odisha as well as the country, he said.
“BJD supports CAA but is not in favour of NRC. We object Column 13(2) of NPR form which seeks information on place of birth of an individual’s parents & as the Centre has clarified that it is optional, the norm will not be implemented in Odisha,, Mishra said at the presser.
The BJD MP further said that they will urge for more funds for pending railway projects.”As Odisha govt provides land free of cost and bears 50 percent expenditure of the railway projects, the Centre should grant more funds for the development of railway infrastructure in the state.
Due to rampant mining, pollution is on the rise in the state and we have been demanding clean energy cess for long and the party MPs will reiterate the demand in the upcoming budget session.
“This apart, coal royalty, Pollavaram, Mahanadi & other issues related to the interest of Odisha will also be raised during the upcoming Budget Session of the Parliament,” he said.
During the meeting, BJD Supremo also laid emphasis on the performances of the MPs. Parliamentarians who actively take part in the discussions will also be overlooked. The Chief Minister has also directed the Parliamentarians to submit their performance report within two months. He even advised them to work in coordination with local MLA in order to achieve the interest of Odisha.
