Rajya Sabha polls: Contest for fourth seat in Odisha likely to intensify as nomination deadline ends today

With the deadline for filing nominations for the Rajya Sabha elections ending on Thursday, the five candidates from Odisha are set to submit their papers later in the day.

Of the four vacant seats from Odisha, the first two are expected to see straightforward outcomes, while the third and fourth seats have drawn significant political attention.

For the first two seats, the BJP has fielded Manmohan Samal and Sujeet Kumar. The BJD has nominated Santrupt Misra for the third seat. However, the fourth seat is poised for a contest.

Fourth Seat Triggers Political Calculations

The BJD has announced Datteswar Hota as its common candidate for the fourth seat, with the Congress extending support to him. Meanwhile, Dilip Ray will file his nomination as an Independent candidate with the backing of the BJP.

From a numerical perspective, the position appears favourable for Manmohan Samal and Sujeet Kumar. However, Dilip Ray’s entry into the fray has introduced uncertainty, not only for the fourth seat but also potentially for Santrupt Misra’s prospects for the third seat.

The BJD and the Congress are reportedly wary of cross-voting. It is being speculated that the fourth seat may hinge on additional support, as the BJP is said to require eight more votes.

Outreach And Emerging Speculation

As per reports, Dilip Ray had stated that he would approach leaders across parties. He had also met OPCC President Bhakta Das, who clarified that due to an understanding with the BJD, the Congress would not be able to extend support to him.

Speculation has intensified amid reported internal rifts within the BJD and earlier expressions of dissatisfaction by some party leaders. Observers are closely watching whether members will adhere to the party line or support Ray.

Fresh discussion also followed Arvind Mohapatra’s remarks, suggesting that candidature dynamics may yet shift.

Also Read: Rajya Sabha polls: Independent candidate Dilip Ray’s visit to Bijoy Mohapatra’s residence sparks political buzz in Odisha

In a recent tweet, Dilip Ray remembered late Biju Patnaik, stating that he still considers him his leader. Notably, during the final days of Biju Patnaik, he had lived with Dilip Ray, at a time when there was reportedly a rift between Biju Patnaik and Naveen Patnaik.

Polls Details

March 9 is the last date for withdrawal of nominations. Voting will be held on March 16 from 9 am to 4 pm, with counting at 5 pm the same day. Elections are being conducted for 37 Rajya Sabha seats across 10 states, including four from Odisha.