In a major political action, the Biju Janata Dal has suspended six of its MLAs for alleged cross-voting in the recent Rajya Sabha elections in Odisha, triggering a fresh political storm in the state.
The party, led by former Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik, said the decision was taken after a detailed review by its Disciplinary Committee and Political Affairs Committee. The leadership termed the act as a serious violation of party principles and internal discipline.
According to the party’s official statement, the MLAs were found guilty of “anti-party activities including cross voting,” which goes against the core constitution of the BJD that mandates absolute loyalty to collective decisions.
Six MLAs Suspended With Immediate Effect
The six legislators who have been suspended are:
- Chakramani Kanhar (Baliguda)
- Naba Kishore Mallick (Jayadev)
- Souvic Biswal (Choudwar-Cuttack)
- Subasini Jena (Basta)
- Ramakanta Bhoi (Tirtol)
- Devi Ranjan Tripathy (Banki)
All six were earlier issued show-cause notices seeking an explanation for their conduct. However, the party said their replies were not satisfactory.
Leadership Unhappy With Explanations
BJD Chief Whip Pramila Mallik confirmed that the MLAs had submitted their responses by Friday evening, but the leadership was not convinced, leading to strict disciplinary action.
The move signals a strong message from the party leadership against dissent and indiscipline within its ranks.
Rajya Sabha Poll Results Trigger Action
The action comes in the backdrop of the recent Rajya Sabha elections in Odisha, where the Bharatiya Janata Party, currently in power in the state, secured two out of the four seats. An independent candidate backed by the BJP also emerged victorious, while the BJD managed to win only one seat.
The cross-voting by its own MLAs is believed to have impacted the party’s performance, prompting swift disciplinary measures.
Political Impact In Odisha
The suspension of six MLAs is likely to have significant political implications in Odisha, indicating internal cracks within the BJD at a time when the party faces a strong challenge from the BJP.
With this decisive action, Naveen Patnaik’s party has attempted to reassert control and discipline, even as the political battle in the state intensifies.
