<h1>Opposition to gherao assembly over BDOs' new power to approve panchayat bills up to Rs10 lakh without chair countersignature</h1> An opposition party announced plans to gherao the state assembly on September 23, alleging the ruling party has systematically curtailed elected representatives' powers under the Panchayati Raj system and cut the Panchayati Raj and drinking water budget. The opposition criticized a cabinet decision increasing Block Development Officers' authority to approve panchayat samiti bills up to Rs 10 lakh without the elected chairperson's countersignature, saying it reduces local chairs to rubber stamps. Local body leaders including zilla parishad and block chairpersons, sarpanchs, and ward members are expected to join the protest, while the ruling party characterized the agitation as a political diversion.