Bhubaneswar, March 11 -- Members of the opposition, including BJD and Congress, on Wednesday strongly criticised the Odisha government for its perceived inaction in ensuring the safety of Odia workers and professionals stranded in Gulf countries amid ongoing geopolitical tensions.

During a debate on a notice for adjournment moved by BJD members Pramilla Mallik and Pratap Keshari Deb, opposition lawmakers accused the BJP-led state government of showing little concern for Odias trapped abroad due to the war.

They highlighted that despite coming to power with a focus on "Odia Asmita," the government has failed to bring back stranded citizens or assist families of deceased workers.

Opposition members said an estimated 3-4 lakh Odia nationals...