The opposition Biju Janata Dal (BJD) in Odisha with 51 MLAs out of 147 seats and the Congress in Nagaland with not a single MLA in the state legislative assembly have both initiated two interesting maneuvers.
In BJP-ruled Odisha, the BJD, under the leadership of Naveen Patnaik, has formed a ‘shadow cabinet,’ a strategic move assigning 50 of its MLAs to monitor various state government departments.
This initiative, inspired by the British Westminster system, not only holds the government accountable but also ensures that opposition voices are heard.
The BJD’s strategy is commendable for several reasons. Firstly, it promotes a culture of transparency and accountability, essential components of a healthy democracy. Secondly, this approach keeps the party united and focused on its role as an effective opposition, a critical factor in preventing the concentration of power.
In stark contrast, Nagaland faces the challenges of an oppositionless government, which the Nagaland Pradesh Congress Committee (NPCC) chief and MP, S Supongmeren Jamir, has rightly criticized. The absence of a formal opposition bench is detrimental to the principles of representational democracy. Jamir’s lamentation about Nagaland legislators’ aversion to sitting in the opposition highlights a significant flaw in the state’s political structure, which can lead to unchecked governance and misuse of power.
Notably, the Congress in Nagaland has taken a positive step by proposing the establishment of Development Monitoring Committees. This initiative aims to ensure accountability and optimal utilization of Central funds, acting as a check and balance mechanism. By focusing on grassroots development and the effective execution of projects, these committees can play a crucial role in enhancing transparency and governance in the state. This move not only addresses the immediate need for oversight but also reflects a strategic effort to rebuild the party’s influence by directly engaging with the electorate and addressing their concerns.
The BJD’s formation of a shadow cabinet in Odisha and the Congress’ initiative in Nagaland to establish Development Monitoring Committees are both positive developments worthy of appreciation. The BJD’s move is particularly striking as it is likely to ensure a proactive and united opposition that can enhance accountability and transparency, ensuring effective governance.
Meanwhile, the Congress’ initiative in Nagaland in the absence of a formal opposition is equally commendable, though it is premature to comment on how effective it will be in assuming the role of opposition in an oppositionless political environment, an essential ingredient in a democracy for safeguarding public interests and promoting good governance.