Major twist ahead of Nuapada bypolls: Late BJD MLA Rajendra Dholakia’s son Jay Dholakia likely to join BJP

In a major political development ahead of the Nuapada Assembly by-election, Jay Dholakia, son of late four-time Biju Janata Dal (BJD) MLA Rajendra Dholakia, is likely to join the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP). Sources indicated that the formal induction may take place soon at the local BJP headquarters, marking a significant setback for the ruling Biju Janata Dal (BJD), which was reportedly considering fielding him as its candidate.

Shift Within Hours Of Poll Preparations

Jay Dholakia’s possible entry into the BJP comes exactly a month before the November 11 bypoll, which was necessitated by the demise of his father, veteran BJD leader Rajendra Dholakia, in early September.

Sources added that the move could decisively alter the political landscape of the district, as the Dholakia family commands a strong support base in Nuapada, built over decades through Rajendra Dholakia’s political and social leadership.

BJD leaders, including vice-president Debi Prasad Mishra, had earlier hinted that the party was inclined to nominate Jay Dholakia to continue his father’s legacy. “Nuapada’s development has always been associated with Biju Babu’s vision and Rajendra Dholakia’s leadership,” Mishra had said earlier this week, during a local outreach programme.

If Jay Dholakia’s entry into the BJP materialises, it is likely to deal a symbolic as well as strategic setback to the BJD’s efforts to consolidate the Dholakia family’s influence within the party.

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BJD’s Bypoll Strategy In Turmoil

The BJD had already begun preparations for the by-election, planning a padayatra and extensive voter engagement in the constituency. Local leaders were reportedly in favour of continuing the Dholakia family’s representation to retain the late MLA’s loyal vote bank.

The possible political shift, however, could force the party to revisit its candidate list and campaign strategy.

No comments could be obtained from Jay Dholakia or the BJD, or the BJP regarding