Will not contest on Congress ticket, says Odisha MLA Sura Routray's son

Senior Congress leader and six-time MLA Suresh Routray had earlier this year made a surprise announcement about his retirement from electoral politics. He had also then announced that his son Manmath Routray will be contesting the elections from Jatni area.

However, Manmath on Wednesday sprang a surprise by stating that he will not contest on a Congress ticket. He is believed to have taken the decision after consulting with his supporters and Jatni residents.

In an exclusive interview, Manmath said, "I have been working in the field on the instructions of my father in the past four years. A lot of developmental work has been done and a lot more needs to be done. I have been extensively relying on public connect. I always believe in teamwork and I have been working to ensure that the legacy of my father is taken ahead."

According to Manmath, he has consulted each worker including college students, women and others; and, they have asked him to contest the upcoming elections but not from Congress. They reportedly want Manmath to contest on the ticket of a party that can deliver timely and has a good ideology.

"I was also thinking over this for the past one year. Many things were going on in my mind including my father, who has been working for the Congress for his entire life. After consulting majority of people, I have decided not to contest on Congress ticket. I will announce the party from which I will contest in the coming days," said Manmath.