Veteran Congress leader and former Jatani MLA Suresh Kumar Routray, popularly known as Sura Routray, has made a startling claim regarding the party’s defeat in the 2024 Odisha Assembly elections. Routray stated that Congress lost the Jatani seat because of a personal decision he made for the sake of his two sons.
“I Shaved My Head for My Sons”
Routray revealed that he had to “mundi nuainiba” (shave his head), a symbolic act reflecting deep personal or family commitment. He described this step as a sacrifice made for his sons and directly linked it to the party’s loss in the constituency.
In a candid statement, he said the decision ultimately cost Congress the Jatani seat.
No Return to Electoral Politics
Clarifying his political future, Routray said that although he had earlier indicated he might contest again from Jatani, he has now firmly ruled out a comeback.
“Once I announced my renunciation (sannyas), the question of running again does not come up,” he stated. He further added that he would not repeat the “mistake” of stepping aside again under similar circumstances.
Final Say on Congress Ticket in Jatani
Despite stepping away from contesting, Routray made it clear that he will continue to play a decisive role in the constituency’s political affairs.
“But with my permission, the Congress ticket for Jatani will be final,” he asserted. He emphasized that whether it is one of his sons or any other candidate, no one will contest from Jatani without his approval—and that candidate will emerge victorious.
Debate Within Party Circles
Routray’s remarks have sparked discussions within Congress ranks, particularly in Khordha district. Party members are now debating leadership strategy, candidate selection, and the role of senior leaders in rebuilding the party ahead of future elections.
His statements have also fueled speculation about internal family dynamics and the possibility of a political comeback through the next generation.
As Congress looks to regain lost ground in Odisha, especially in key constituencies like Jatani, Routray’s influence and assertions are likely to remain central to the party’s local strategy.