BJP makes strategic gains in Odisha Rajya Sabha polls, cross-voting jolts Naveen Patnaik-led Opposition

Independent Dilip Ray’s win over BJD-backed nominee exposes cracks within regional and Congress ranks

By Sukant Mohanty

Bhubaneswar, March 16: The Rajya Sabha elections in Odisha concluded on Monday with the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) further consolidating its position, as three candidates aligned with the party secured victory in a contest marked by cross-voting and sharp political exchanges.

BJP nominees Manmohan Samal and Sujeet Kumar won comfortably, securing 35 first-preference votes each. The spotlight, however, remained on BJP-backed Independent Dilip Ray, who defeated Independent candidate Datteswar Hota in a closely watched contest.

Ray polled 23 first-preference votes and gained additional second-preference transfers with a vote value of 1,118, taking his total to 3,418—equivalent to more than 34 votes—well above the required quota of 30. Hota, despite backing from the Biju Janata Dal and the Congress, remained at 23 first-preference votes and could not bridge the gap.

In another outcome, BJD candidate Santrupt Misra was elected with 31 first-preference votes, ensuring the regional party retained a presence despite the setback.

Ray’s victory assumes significance as it was aided by cross-voting from within opposition ranks. At least eight BJD MLAs and three Congress legislators are learnt to have voted in his favour, defying party positions and altering the final outcome.

The cross-voting triggered a political slugfest. BJD president Naveen Patnaik alleged that those who deviated from the party line had “criminal antecedents,” a remark that drew a sharp rebuttal from Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi.

Rejecting allegations of inducement, Majhi said the MLAs had exercised their franchise independently. “They have voted as per their conscience. Labeling them anti-social is an attempt to malign their image and is condemnable,” he said.

Meanwhile, Hota maintained a composed stance despite the defeat, describing the election as a valuable experience. “I had the opportunity to meet and interact with all honourable MLAs. I remain grateful for the support extended to me and have full faith in Lord Jagannath. I will continue to serve the people with dedication,” he said, while acknowledging the backing he received from Naveen Patnaik, the Congress and Left parties.

The outcome is being seen as a pointer to changing political dynamics in Odisha, with the BJP making inroads into a space traditionally dominated by the BJD, even as questions arise over internal cohesion within opposition parties.