Bhubaneswar, Sep 22: On Friday, Pramila Mallik achieved a historic milestone by becoming the first woman to be elected as the Speaker of the Odisha Assembly.

Pramila Mallik's election to the position of Speaker was a smooth affair as she emerged as the sole candidate to file a nomination for the esteemed post. This uncontested victory underscores the commanding position of the ruling Biju Janata Dal (BJD), which enjoys an absolute majority in the 147-member assembly.

Pramila Mallik, a seasoned legislator with an impressive track record, has represented the Binjharpur constituency in Jajpur district for six terms. Prior to her election as Speaker, she held the important portfolio of Revenue and Disaster Management minister in Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik's current cabinet. Additionally, she has previously served as the Chief Whip of the BJD, highlighting her extensive experience in Odisha's political landscape.

Notably, Mallik's political journey has not been without challenges. In the past, she had also served as a minister in Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik's administration. However, her tenure was marred by controversy, leading to her resignation in February 2011 amid allegations related to the multi-crore Dal scam.

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