Bhubaneswar: The Odisha Pradesh Congress Committee (OPCC) has announced plans to stage a protest in front of the Chief Minister’s residence on May 22-23, demanding 27% reservation for the Socially and Educationally Backward Classes (SEBC) in technical education.
The party claims that the state government’s recent decision to provide 11.25% reservation is a betrayal and a mere token gesture.
Addressing mediapersons, Odisha In-charge Ajay Kumar Lallu claimed that that the Odisha government’s decision falls short of expectations. Demanding an immediate revision to meet the 27% quota, he said, “If the government fails to reconsider its decision, the Congress party will launch agitation on May 22-23.”
He asserts that the Congress Party will continue its fight for constitutional rights and the protection of marginalised communities.
On Wednesday, Odisha Congress President Bhakta Charan Das termed the Cabinet decision disappointing and insufficient.
Das expressed disappointment over the Cabinet’s decision to grant only 11.25% reservation to SEBC and OBC communities. He demanded a full 27% reservation, stating that the current decision is insufficient.
Das also made it clear that, “If our demands are not met, there will be protests in every block and every district. On May 22–23, Congress workers will stage a satyagraha in front of the Chief Minister’s residence. On the 23rd, we will also hold a public meeting and announce our future course of action.
Notably, the Odisha State Cabinet on Wednesday approved 11.25% reservation in admissions for students belonging to Socially and Economically Backward Classes (SEBC) in state public universities and government-aided higher education institutions, effective from the academic year 2025-26.
