The inaugural address by Assam Governor Gulab Chand Kataria on the opening day of the Budget Session of Assam Assembly faced major disruption as opposition members staged a walkout, compelling the Governor to curtail his speech to just one minute and 20 seconds.
The disruption took place on Monday during the start of the Budget Session of the Assam Legislative Assembly, which is scheduled to extend until February 28.
The highlight of the session will be the presentation of the state budget for the fiscal year 2024-25 by Assam Finance Minister Ajanta Neog on February 12.
The unexpected conclusion of Governor Kataria’s speech marked an unusual and contentious beginning to the proceedings, with the opposition’s protests overshadowing the customary formalities.
In anticipation of potential disruptions, security measures within the assembly premises had been heightened ahead of the session. Despite these precautions, the intensity of the opposition’s objection took many attendees by surprise.
Adding to the political tension, Chief Minister Dr Himanta Biswa Sarma had earlier announced the introduction of the Assam Polygamy Ban Bill during the current assembly session, further contributing to the already charged political environment.
Additionally, the presentation of the Assam Tourism (Development and Registration) Bill, 2024, is expected, alongside a series of new and amendment bills throughout the Budget Session.