Rajya Sabha byelection: It was BJP’s internal strategy, says Jagannath Pradhan after withdrawing nomination

In a new turn of events, senior BJP leader Jagannath Pradhan on Tuesday withdrew his nomination for the upcoming Rajya Sabha bypoll. Pradhan had earlier filed the nomination soon after BJP’s official candidate Mamata Mohanta submitted her papers on August 21, 2024.

While talking to reporters about his nomination withdrawal, Pradhan informed that he had filed the nomination as per the decision of the BJP leadership.

“As per BJP leadership’s decision, I had filed the nomination on August 21 and withdrew my candidature as per subsequent instruction. As a disciplined worker, I discharged my duty that was assigned to me,” said Pradhan.

When asked whether he filed the nomination as a preventive measure in case the nomination of the other candidate is cancelled, Pradhan said, “Nobody had discussed such aspect. I am unaware about party’s internal planning. I did whatever was told to me.”

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However, Pradhan said that it was a backup strategy of the party.

“BJP is a like a big tree and being an old and disciplined worker, the party reposed faith in me and gave me a task. It was a party strategy and I worked as per the instruction. Party will decide on my future,” Pradhan added.