In a major development that has sparked widespread controversy, the 42nd national conference of the Backward and Minority Communities Employees Federation (BAMCEF) has been abruptly cancelled. The event, slated for December 26 to 30, 2025, at Cuttack's Baliyatra ground, was called off after the local administration withdrew its permission.
Sudden Withdrawal of Permission Stuns Organisers
The deputy commissioner of Cuttack revoked the previously granted approval for the large-scale gathering. The organisers have strongly contested the reasons provided for this withdrawal, labelling them as inappropriate and unjustified. The conference was expected to draw a massive crowd, with preparations for hosting over 100,000 representatives from across India already in an advanced stage. A significant investment, estimated at around Rs 2 crore, had already been made for the arrangements at the historic Baliyatra ground.
Political Backlash and Allegations of Conspiracy
The decision has triggered a sharp political reaction. The Odisha Social Justice United Forum held a press conference on Tuesday at the Lohia Academy in Bhubaneswar to condemn the move. The forum received backing from senior BJD MLA Ranendra Pratap Swain, who joined the call for the immediate reinstatement of the permission.
A delegation from the forum also met with the leader of the opposition and former chief minister, Naveen Patnaik, seeking his intervention. Patnaik assured the group that he would take up the matter with the state's top administration and the Director General of Police (DGP). Simultaneously, the organisation sent an email to the DGP, formally requesting a reconsideration of the decision.
Organisers Point Finger at State Government
The conference organisers have not minced words in their criticism. They have described the permission withdrawal as a "well-planned conspiracy" aimed at suppressing the voices of Scheduled Castes (SC), Scheduled Tribes (ST), Other Backward Classes (OBC), and minority communities. They have directly accused the BJP-led state government of being behind this move and have issued a stern warning, stating that the government will be held responsible for any adverse consequences arising from this cancellation.
The situation remains tense as stakeholders await a possible reversal of the decision. The incident has highlighted simmering tensions and raised significant questions about the space for large-scale gatherings representing marginalised communities in the state.
