BJD Suspends 6 MLAs Over Rajya Sabha Cross-Voting Row

Bhubaneswar :In a strong disciplinary move, the Biju Janata Dal (BJD) has suspended six of its MLAs for alleged cross-voting during the recently concluded Rajya Sabha elections, deepening the political crisis within the party.

The action follows accusations that the legislators defied the party line and supported BJP-backed Independent candidate Dilip Ray, leading to unexpected election results.

Suspended MLAs

The six MLAs facing suspension are:

1. Souvic Biswal (Choudwar-Cuttack)
2. Devi Ranjan Tripathy (Banki)
3. Chakramani Kanhar (Baliguda)
4. Ramakanta Bhoi (Tirtol)
5. Subasini Jena (Basta)
6. Naba Kishor Mallick (Jayadev)

Earlier Suspensions

Notably, the BJD had already suspended two MLAs earlier — Sanatan Mahakud and Aravind Mohapatra — ahead of the Rajya Sabha voting.

With the latest action, the total number of suspended MLAs linked to the cross-voting controversy has now risen to eight, signaling a firm stance by the party leadership against dissent.

Reason Behind Action

According to party sources, the MLAs were found guilty of:

• Violating party directives
• Engaging in anti-party activities
• Allegedly cross-voting in favour of Dilip Ray

Senior leaders have also alleged the role of money power, claiming that inducements were offered to influence votes.

Political Fallout

The cross-voting significantly altered the election outcome:

• BJP won 2 seats
• BJD secured 1 seat
• Independent candidate Dilip Ray clinched the fourth seat

The development triggered protests across Odisha, with BJD workers staging demonstrations and demanding strict action.

What Lies Ahead

The suspension sends a strong message from the BJD leadership against internal rebellion. Further disciplinary steps, including possible expulsion, may follow as the party continues its internal review.