The race for Odisha’s four Rajya Sabha seats has intensified as the BJP purchased 16 sets of nomination papers on Monday. While the party is mathematically certain to win two seats, the bulk purchase—four forms for each of the four potential candidates—has fueled speculation that the BJP might challenge the BJD-Congress alliance for additional seats.
Government Chief Whip Saroj Pradhan, accompanied by five MLAs, collected the forms from the Assembly’s election officer. "Candidates will be finalized by the Central Parliamentary Affairs Committee soon," Pradhan stated.
This move follows Naveen Patnaik’s strategic nomination of Santrupt Misra and urologist Dr. Datteswar Hota. By branding Dr. Hota as a "common candidate" and securing Congress support, the BJD aims to block the BJP from a third seat. With the BJP likely to announce its names within 48 hours, Odisha is set for a high-stakes legislative showdown.