Odisha: OAS Officers Launch Mass Leave, BMC Staff Cease Work Following Assault on BMC Official

Protests continue in Odisha following the assault on Bhubaneswar Municipal Corporation (BMC) additional commissioner Ratnakar Sahoo. OAS and ORS officers from eight districts—Cuttack, Mayurbhanj, Jagatsinghpur, Bhadrak, Rayagada, Balangir, Sonepur, and Ganjam—have decided to go on indefinite mass leave. This action was taken due to concerns about the implementation of promised government action, as Cuttack ADM Shiba Toppo stated. BMC staff also ceased work and held a day-long dharna to demand justice. Police have arrested three individuals, including a BJP corporator, in connection with the incident. Additionally, the Odisha BJP president has suspended five party members for their alleged involvement. The Chief Minister had previously met with the OAS Association to discuss the matter and ensure justice.