Bhubaneswar, Sep 23: In a sharp rebuttal to the BJD’s recent agitation, BJP MLA Irasis Acharya accused the ruling party of staging drama both inside and outside the Assembly to protect vested interests.

Speaking during the ongoing session, Acharya alleged that BJD’s opposition stems from the government's crackdown on commission-based dealings and its efforts to empower panchayat representatives.

“The powers of panchayat representatives have not been curtailed. What has ended is the commission business,” Acharya said, referring to the alleged 40% commission practice that has reportedly been curbed under the current administration. He claimed that the BJD’s agitation is driven by discomfort among middlemen and contractors who are no longer benefiting from the previous system.

Acharya further stated that the Mohan Charan Majhi government has taken concrete steps to strengthen grassroots governance through the “Bikashita Gaon, Bikashita Odisha” initiative.

Under this programme, panchayat representatives are actively involved in village-level planning through Palli Sabhas, ensuring inclusive development.

He criticized the BJD for allegedly sidelining elected panchayat leaders and conducting Gram Sabhas under the directives of party leaders rather than through democratic consultation. “They never asked the panchayat representatives. Now that the system is changing, which is making them (BJD) uncomfortable,” Acharya added.

The BJP’s response comes amid heightened political tension in the Assembly, with both parties trading barbs over governance and rural development. The remarks reflect the BJP’s strategy to position itself as a champion of transparent governance and grassroots empowerment.