Congress Cracks Whip: 3 Odisha MLAs Suspended for Cross Voting in Rajya Sabha Polls
Party initiates disciplinary action after legislators back BJP-supported Independent candidate in crucial poll
Bhubaneswar: The Indian National Congress in Odisha has suspended three of its legislators for defying the party line during the recent Rajya Sabha elections, where they supported a BJP-backed Independent nominee.
The MLAs Ramesh Chandra Jena, Dasarathi Gomango and Sofia Firdous were found to have voted in favour of Dilip Ray, a move that contributed to his victory in the closely watched contest. The party termed their actions a serious breach of discipline and against its organisational interests.
State leadership said the decision followed a detailed assessment, adding that further steps would be taken to inform the Assembly Speaker and pursue disqualification under anti-defection provisions. The party also conveyed its disappointment, describing the development as unexpected and damaging.
The cross-voting incident played a decisive role in altering the outcome of the election, where the opposition’s joint candidate failed to secure enough support. The Congress had aligned with the Biju Janata Dal to back a common nominee, but the strategy faltered after multiple legislators broke ranks.
Party officials indicated that the leadership at the national level has been apprised of the situation, while reiterating their commitment to enforcing discipline and safeguarding party unity in future electoral exercises.
