A major national gathering of backward and minority community employees in Odisha has been thrown into uncertainty after the local administration abruptly revoked its permission. The significant event, which was expected to draw a massive crowd, now stands cancelled, sparking outrage and allegations of political conspiracy.
Permission Withdrawn at the Eleventh Hour
The 42nd national conference of the Backward and Minority Communities Employees Federation (BAMCEF) was scheduled to take place at the Baliyatra ground in Cuttack from December 26 to 30, 2025. In a sudden move, the Deputy Commissioner of Cuttack withdrew the official permission that had been granted earlier for the event. The organizers have strongly contested the reasons provided for this withdrawal, labeling them as inappropriate and unjustified.
Preparations for the large-scale conference were already in an advanced stage. The federation had reportedly spent a substantial sum of around Rs 2 crore on arrangements at the venue. The event was poised to host a staggering over 100,000 representatives from various parts of India, making it a significant platform for the communities involved.
Political Backing and Calls for Intervention
In response to the administration's decision, the Odisha Social Justice United Forum held a press conference on Tuesday at the Lohia Academy in Bhubaneswar to condemn the move. The forum has the backing of senior BJD MLA Ranendra Pratap Swain and has demanded the immediate reinstatement of the permission.
Seeking a resolution, a delegation from the forum met with the Leader of Opposition and former Chief Minister, Naveen Patnaik, urging him to intervene in the matter. Patnaik assured the delegation that he would take up the issue with the state's top administration and the Director General of Police (DGP). Simultaneously, the organization has also sent an email to the DGP, formally requesting a reconsideration of the decision.
Allegations of a Political Conspiracy
The organizers have not minced words in their criticism, framing the permission withdrawal as a "well-planned conspiracy." They have accused the ruling BJP government at the center of attempting to suppress the voices and democratic rights of the Scheduled Castes (SC), Scheduled Tribes (ST), Other Backward Classes (OBC), and minority communities.
Issuing a stern warning, the forum has stated that the state government will be held fully responsible for any adverse outcomes or unrest resulting from this controversial decision. The situation remains tense as stakeholders await a response from the authorities, hoping for a reversal that would allow the landmark conference to proceed as planned.
