Odisha Rajya Sabha Race Heats Up as Parties Eye Fourth Seat
The election process for four Rajya Sabha seats from Odisha has officially begun, setting the stage for a high‑stakes political battle.
Nominations are open until March 5, with scrutiny on March 6, withdrawals until March 9, and polling (if required) scheduled for March 16.
Three seats appear straightforward: BJP is poised to secure two, while BJD is expected to claim one. The real contest lies in the fourth seat, where alliances and tactical voting will determine the outcome.
Congress, with 14 MLAs, lacks the numbers to win independently but is exploring an alliance with BJD.
Internal opposition within the BJD against supporting the BJP adds complexity to the scenario.
Naveen Patnaik’s decision will be pivotal in shaping Odisha’s representation in the Upper House.
With the terms of Munna Khan, Niranjan Bishi, Mamata Mohanta, and Sujit Kumar expiring, the upcoming election is not just about numbers but also about strategy, alliances, and political signalling ahead of larger national battles.
