Rajya Sabha elections may witness twist in Odisha, hints MLA Arvind Mohapatra

The upcoming Rajya Sabha elections in Odisha may witness unexpected developments, if the latest remarks by MLA Arvind Mohapatra are any indication. Speaking exclusively to OTV on Tuesday, the Patkura legislator and suspended BJD leader hinted that the contest is likely to become more intriguing in the coming days.

Also Read: Will vote independently in Rajya Sabha polls: Suspended BJD MLA Arvind Mohapatra

The MLA stated that the battle is not merely between Dr. Datteswar Hota and Dilip Ray, suggesting that broader political dynamics are at play. With four Rajya Sabha seats set to fall vacant, five candidates are already in the fray. Mohapatra further indicated that the number of contestants could rise to six, adding a fresh layer of suspense to the election.

Mohapatra’s remarks have triggered intense political speculation in the State. Observers are now questioning whether his statement signals the possibility of a candidate being fielded against BJD candidate Santrupt Mishra. The prospect of an additional contender has fuelled discussions across party lines.

Mohapatra maintained that the full picture will become clear in the coming days, but his ‘big hint’ has already set off debate over shifting equations and potential surprises in the Rajya Sabha race.

“Four (Rajya Sabha) seats (from Odisha) will be vacant, and five candidates are there in the fray. It is not a fight between Datteshwar Hota and Dilip Ray. Everyone should be very clear in their perception about this. The pages of the book will gradually open after March 5. We need not be in a hurry and rather wait and watch the things develop,” the MLA said.

Worth mentioning, earlier on February 13, the Patkura MLA had expressed that he now considers himself an Independent MLA and will vote in the upcoming Rajya Sabha elections based on the merit of the candidates.

Reported By: Arun Kumar Sahu