Debashish Samantaray Elected Unopposed to Rajya Sabha on BJP Ticket

Senior leader Debashish Samantaray has been elected unopposed to the Rajya Sabha on a Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) ticket, after being the only candidate in the by-election. As no other nomination was filed, voting was not required, resulting in his uncontested election to the Upper House.

By-election Held After Resignation from BJD

The by-election was conducted following Samantaray’s resignation from both the Rajya Sabha and the Biju Janata Dal (BJD). He had previously served as a Rajya Sabha MP representing the BJD.

According to reports, he resigned from the party and his parliamentary membership on May 25, submitting his resignation to BJD president Naveen Patnaik and also meeting the Rajya Sabha Chairman C. P. Radhakrishnan to formally complete the process.

Sharp Criticism of BJD After Exit

Soon after leaving the BJD, Samantaray publicly criticised the party, alleging internal restrictions and dissatisfaction within the organisation. He stated that he felt “restricted” while in the party and also questioned certain party practices, including its approach to legacy and leadership related to Biju Patnaik.

His remarks triggered political discussion in Odisha’s political circles, especially given his long association with the BJD.

Joining BJP in Delhi

Just a day after resigning from the BJD, on May 26, Samantaray joined the Bharatiya Janata Party in Delhi.

He formally joined the party at the BJP headquarters in the presence of Odisha BJP state president Manmohan Samal and party observer Vijaypal Singh Tomar.

Unopposed Election Strengthens BJP Position

With Samantaray being the sole candidate in the by-election, the BJP effectively secured the Rajya Sabha seat without contest. His unopposed election is seen as a significant political development in Odisha’s evolving political landscape.