BJD MLAs to Reconvene at Naveen Niwas Amid Rajya Sabha Speculation

Bhubaneswar: The Biju Janata Dal (BJD) has rescheduled its crucial meeting of party legislators at Naveen Niwas for Saturday morning, following the abrupt cancellation of Friday’s gathering.

More than 35 MLAs had assembled at Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik’s residence on Friday evening, expecting discussions on Rajya Sabha elections and organisational matters.

However, the meeting was called off at the last minute, with legislators asked to return the next day.

Party insiders revealed that the brief interaction focused only on strengthening organisational structures and constituency issues, while Rajya Sabha nominations were left unaddressed.

The absence of nearly a dozen MLAs and speculation about the BJP’s strategy are believed to have influenced the postponement.

The BJD, which has claimed six Rajya Sabha seats, has yet to collect proposer signatures.

The Political Affairs Committee has already vested full authority in Naveen Patnaik to finalise candidates, sparking rumours that the party may field an external political personality.

Saturday’s meeting is expected to be decisive, as the party prepares to announce its Rajya Sabha strategy and candidates.