Vote on no-confidence motion against Brajarajnagar municipality chairperson; results likely on February 5

Tensions are escalating within Biju Janata Dal (BJD) in Jharsuguda, with a no-confidence motion brought against the Brajarajnagar Municipality chairperson Jagyanseni Oram.

The move is allegedly supported by the party members loyal to late BJD leader Naba Das’ daughter and former Jharsuguda legislator Dipali Das and her brother Bishal Das.

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In a pre-voting video statement, the incumbent chairperson Jagyanseni directly addressed BJD supremo Naveen Patnaik, questioning how party members could support actions perceived as harassment towards a tribal woman (Jagyanseni), hinting that such internal strife may signify challenges for the party's future if familial involvement is prevalent.

“If at all I am involved in corrupt practices, then, let an inquiry be conducted,” the civic body chairperson was heard saying in the video.

“If some BJD family members will run after other members of the party, what will be the fate of it, in such a situation? Obviously, the party will disintegrate here (in Jharsuguda). The future of BJD is at risk,” Jagyanseni expressed.

However, the deputy chairperson of Brajarajnagar municipality rejected the claims, asserting that neither Dipali Das nor her family is involved with the no-confidence proceedings.

“The District Collector had fixed the date and accordingly voting was conducted today. She (Jagyanseni) was not taking any of the councillors to her confidence and was behaving arrogantly,” Deputy Chairman Gopal Sitani stated.

This situation arises from an earlier proposal by councillors for a no-confidence vote, leading Jagyanseni to approach Orissa High Court, resulting in a directive for the vote to be carried out with results pending until a hearing scheduled on February 5.

The voting was conducted today with participation from all 23 councillors, and the result was withheld awaiting further court directives.

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In a previous incident, a no-confidence motion against the chairperson encountered an unexpected halt as no members turned up for the proceedings in Kirmira block of Jharsuguda district, on January 10.

The absence of both Samiti members and sarpanchs resulted in the cancellation of the vote. The election officer, who had been present from 10.00 AM to 11.00 AM, was forced to vacate the venue due to the lack of attendance.