Pipili: Putting all speculations to rest, the ruling Biju Janata Dal (BJD) picked Rudra Pratap Maharathy as the party candidate for the upcoming by-election to Pipili assembly constituency in Puri district. Chief Minister and BJD supremo Naveen Patnaik chose Maharathy's name for representing the party from the segment.
Rudra Pratap is the son of veteran leader and seven-time MLA Pradeep Maharathy whose demise has necessitated the bypoll.
“Rudra Pratap Maharathy, son of late MLA Pradeep Maharathy will be the Biju Janata Dal candidate for the Pipili by-election,” announced Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik.
Soon after the announcement of his name, party heavyweights reached Rudra Pratap's residence to decide the next course of action.
"I thank Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik for reposing faith in me. I am hopeful that the people of Delang and Pipili will support me and help me emerge victorious in the bypoll," Rudra Pratap told media.
Asked about the filing of his nomination papers, he said the date will be finalised after a discussion with the party leaders.
"I will fulfill all the incomplete dreams of my father. Development and progress of Delang and Pipili will be my prime focus," he added.
Yesterday the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) had named Ashrit Pattanayak as its candidate for the by-election to Pipili. Ashrit filed his nomination at Puri ADM office today.
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