Nuapada by-election Archives - Odisha Connect

Nuapada By Election 2025 : Vibhishana Hunt Grips Nuapada: Parties Battle Internal Betrayals Ahead of By-Poll

OdishaConnect — Mon, 10 Nov 2025 12:03:56 +0000

As the Nuapada by-election heads into its decisive final phase, the real battle appears to be raging not just at the ballot box but within the political parties themselves. Behind the scenes, BJP, BJD, and Congress leaders are struggling to douse internal fires, placate discontented insiders, and guard against potential “Vibhishanas” — defectors or saboteurs who could derail campaigns at the eleventh hour.

BJP’s Gamble Backfires: Anger Over Jay Dholakia’s Entry

The BJP has found itself grappling with rebellion and resentment after announcing Jay Dholakia, a recent defector from the BJD, as its candidate for the by-election. The move, intended to strengthen the party’s prospects, has instead unsettled loyal workers who feel sidelined.

Insiders reveal that several rounds of damage-control meetings are underway at the state level to manage the internal fallout. However, acceptance of the new entrant remains uncertain. Many in the party’s traditional core fear that Dholakia’s nomination could fracture the BJP’s grassroots unity in the constituency.

Adding to the suspicion, some of Dholakia’s former BJD loyalists have been spotted campaigning in BJP colours, fuelling speculation that old allegiances may not have truly shifted.

BJD Faces a Mirror Challenge With Snehangini Chhuria

If the BJP is struggling with an outsider, the BJD is facing its own version of the same crisis. After Dholakia’s defection, the ruling party parachuted Snehangini Chhuria — a leader from outside the district — as its candidate, stunning local aspirants who had long nurtured hopes of representing the party.

While Chhuria’s campaign has gathered momentum, unease among local leaders persists. Some long-time BJD functionaries have reportedly withdrawn from active campaigning, their discontent simmering just beneath the surface. The leadership remains vigilant against possible acts of passive resistance or sabotage from within.

Congress Quiet on the Surface, Uneasy Beneath

Unlike its rivals, the Congress has maintained a public façade of calm. Its candidate, Ghasiram Majhi, was declared early, sparing the party from immediate internal backlash. However, reports suggest that both the BJP and BJD have been quietly reaching out to influential Congress figures, hoping to weaken Majhi’s support base from within.

This “invisible poaching” has created uncertainty in the Congress camp, with whispers of cross-party sympathies and secret understandings circulating as polling day nears.

Last-Minute Damage Control Before Silence Period

With the campaigning window closing, local party chiefs are racing to ensure cohesion and loyalty among their cadres. Meetings, closed-door negotiations, and emotional appeals are being made to contain dissent.

Political observers note that these final 48 hours could prove decisive — not only for voters’ choices but for party integrity itself. The results will ultimately reveal whether unity or betrayal shapes the outcome in Nuapada’s fiercely contested by-election.

A Test of Nerves and Loyalty

As tension peaks, Nuapada has turned into a pressure cooker of ambition and anxiety. For all three major parties, the battle is as much about defeating rivals as it is about surviving internal fault lines. The coming days will determine who truly commands loyalty — and who quietly crosses the line when the stakes are highest.

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Nuapada By-Poll Campaign Enters Final Phase as Congress Unveils Manifesto

OdishaConnect — Thu, 06 Nov 2025 08:48:23 +0000

With just four days left for polling in the Nuapada by-election, political temperature in the region has soared. Candidates and leaders from all major parties — BJP, BJD, and Congress — are leaving no stone unturned to reach out to voters. Each party has rolled out its campaign blueprint, deploying heavyweight leaders to consolidate support and influence the final phase of voter outreach.

Congress Releases Election Manifesto for Nuapada

The Odisha Pradesh Congress Committee (OPCC) on Wednesday formally released its manifesto for the Nuapada by-election. The announcement was made by OPCC president Bhakta Charan Das at Khuntia Bhavan in Nuapada, in the presence of several senior party leaders.

Prominent Congress figures including MP Saptagiri Ulaka, Legislature Party leader Ram Chandra Kadam, former Union Minister Srikant Jena, former OPCC presidents Niranjan Patnaik and Jaydev Jena, and ex-minister Jagannath Patnaik attended the event. They jointly unveiled the manifesto, pledging justice and development for the long-neglected people of Nuapada district.

A Call for Justice and Development

Speaking at the event, OPCC chief Bhakta Charan Das strongly criticized both the ruling BJD and the BJP-led central government, accusing them of years of deliberate neglect toward Nuapada. “The district has remained deprived of basic needs and developmental priorities,” Das said, asserting that the Congress is committed to restoring dignity and rights to the region’s residents.

The manifesto portrays Congress as a party of justice — aiming to free the district from political exploitation and to place Nuapada firmly on the path of development.

Appeal for Support to Ghasiram Majhi

The Congress urged voters to support its candidate Ghasiram Majhi, describing him as a veteran leader with an unblemished 40-year record of service and struggle. “Ghasiram Majhi has dedicated his entire life to the Congress and will continue to serve as long as he lives,” the manifesto stated, portraying him as a symbol of integrity and perseverance.

Key Promises in the Congress Manifesto

The party’s manifesto lays out a detailed roadmap for transforming Nuapada’s economy and society. The key highlights include:

Agriculture Development: Commitment to modernize agriculture and ensure irrigation for 60% of cultivable land in the district.
Employment Generation: Measures to stop distress migration and promote local livelihood opportunities.
Forest Rights and Land Ownership: Implementation of the Forest Rights Act to grant land rights to tribal families.
Education and Health: Filling up all vacant teacher posts in schools and appointing doctors in local hospitals.
Women Empowerment: Strengthening women’s Self-Help Groups (SHGs) and ensuring financial independence for rural women.

A Fight Against Neglect

The Congress leadership positioned the by-election as a referendum against years of administrative apathy. They called upon voters to bring change by electing Ghasiram Majhi, who they said represents honesty, grassroots connection, and an unbroken commitment to Nuapada’s development.

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Naveen’s Nuapada Visit Aimed at Ensuring BJP Victory, Claims Congress

OdishaConnect — Mon, 03 Nov 2025 15:45:30 +0000

The Odisha Congress has alleged that Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik’s visit to Nuapada ahead of the upcoming by-election is strategically aimed at ensuring the victory of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) candidate. Addressing a press conference at the Congress Bhavan, senior Congress leader and former PCC president Jaydev Jena claimed that the so-called contest in Nuapada may appear three-cornered, but in reality, it is a two-way fight — with the BJD and BJP joining hands against the Congress.

Jena stated that for 24 years, Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik had “completely forgotten Nuapada,” but has suddenly remembered the district due to the bypoll. “The charm of Naveen Patnaik is gone. The people of Odisha have seen through the BJD’s deceit,” he said.

According to Jena, the real election strategy was decided in New Delhi through an understanding between Union Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw and BJD’s top strategist V.K. Pandian. “It was decided that the BJD would field a non-local candidate to split the anti-BJP vote, while Vaishnaw and Pandian would ensure the BJP candidate’s victory. Naveen’s visit is only a show to convince people that BJD and BJP are not working together,” Jena alleged.

He further said, “On one side are Ashwini Vaishnaw, V.K. Pandian, Naveen Patnaik, Manmohan Samal, and Chief Minister Mohan Majhi; on the other is the Congress, fighting alone but with the strength of the people.”

Jena recalled that even when the BJD-BJP coalition government was in power and Naveen was at his political peak, the Congress had managed to win the Talsara and Laxmipur by-elections. “This time too, Ghasi Ram Majhi will win in Nuapada,” he asserted, adding that while the Congress may lack financial muscle, it has “enormous people power.”

Deal Struck in Delhi, Says Debashish Nayak
Speaking at the same press conference, former minister Debashish Nayak alleged that a deal regarding the Nuapada by-election had already been finalized in New Delhi long ago. “The BJD is only pretending to contest the election. Their campaign is just a performance to secure a respectable vote share,” Nayak said.

In contrast, he added, the Congress has nominated a popular local tribal leader as its candidate and is contesting the election on the issues of social justice and collective development.

Senior Congress spokesperson Manoranjan Dash also attended the press conference.

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Death Threats Rock Odisha Poll Trail: Top BJD Leaders Booked for Farmhouse Attack

OdishaConnect — Sat, 01 Nov 2025 10:19:06 +0000

BJP Worker Alleges Assault by Senior BJD Leaders

Political tensions have flared in Nuapada district, Odisha, ahead of the upcoming by-election, following an alleged assault on a BJP supporter by top leaders of the Biju Janata Dal (BJD).

According to reports, State Organisational Secretary Pranab Prakash Das (Bobi) and MLA Adhiraj Panigrahi have been accused of physically assaulting and threatening to kill a local resident, Jitu Adabanga, a former BJD worker who recently joined the BJP.

Incident at Komana Farmhouse Sparks Outrage

The alleged attack took place at the farmhouse of BJD leader Manoj Mishra in Komana. As per the FIR filed at Komana Police Station, Jitu claimed that he was lured to the farmhouse under false pretences, where he was verbally abused and beaten.

In his statement, Jitu alleged that Bobi Das caught his shirt and slapped him repeatedly, while MLA Adhiraj Panigrahi joined in the threats.

“If you don’t know me, I will kill you and your entire family,” Bobi allegedly said, according to Jitu’s FIR.

Jitu added that he was saved only after the local police intervened in time, saying, “If they had come late, I would have been killed.”

FIR Filed, But No Arrests Yet

An FIR has been registered under BNS sections 296, 126(2), 115(2), (3), and (5). However, no arrests have been made so far, triggering public anger over what locals call police inaction.

Citizens in Komana have accused IIC Rashmita Pradhan of shielding the accused leaders, as she allegedly avoids calls and has not taken concrete steps in the case.

Flying Squad Raids BJD Leader’s Residence

Meanwhile, election surveillance teams intensified their operations in the area. On Thursday, a flying squad accompanied by two magistrates and a police platoon raided the residence of BJD leader Pritiranjan Ghadai on Kharial Road.

Officials reportedly seized a large sum of cash, suspected to be intended for voter bribery, as part of the Election Commission’s crackdown on illegal activities during the by-election period.

By-Election Turns Hostile Amid Accusations of Muscle Power

With just days to go before polling, the political climate in Nuapada has turned increasingly volatile. Allegations of violence, intimidation, and misuse of power have clouded the electoral process.

Residents and civil society groups have demanded a fair investigation and judicial oversight, urging that the matter be brought before the court without delay.

Local observers note that the incident has once again exposed the growing use of political muscle in rural Odisha’s elections, raising questions about law enforcement neutrality and democratic integrity ahead of the crucial by-poll.

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Snehangini Chhuria’s Candid Confessions: Surprise Nomination and BJP Defector Jabs in Nuapada Bypoll Buzz

OdishaConnect — Thu, 16 Oct 2025 10:05:17 +0000

In a candid interview, Biju Janata Dal (BJD) candidate Snehangini Chhuria opened up about her surprise nomination for the Nuapada Assembly by-election, praising party supremo Naveen Patnaik for his strategic choice. The Padampur subdivision leader emphasized her deep-rooted connections to the constituency and addressed allegations of being an outsider, while taking a swipe at BJP’s defector candidate Jay Dholakia.

Strong Local Roots Bolster Chhuria’s Claim

Chhuria, visibly elated at the decision, described her nomination as “completely unexpected” yet a reflection of her longstanding engagement with Nuapada. She stressed, “Nuapada may be new to some, but not for me — I am part of its fabric. My mother’s village is here, and I have spent years understanding and working among its people.”

Highlighting her grassroots experience, she noted her strong rapport with Dalit and Adivasi communities, promising to champion their welfare. “I’ve observed the district for four years and built relationships that will help me act, not just witness, change,” she said.

Refuting Outsider Allegations

Addressing accusations of being a carpetbagger, Chhuria firmly stated, “It’s more than bloodline — I am no foreigner. I have the right to be on my ground.” She emphasized that her deep local ties distinguish her from candidates who enter constituencies solely for electoral gains.

Criticism of BJP’s Jay Dholakia

Chhuria did not hold back her criticism of her main rival, BJP’s Jay Dholakia, a former BJD supporter who switched allegiance recently. She said, “Jay sold out overnight, thinking only of personal gains. BJD workers stayed loyal to Naveen ji despite the treachery.” Her comments underscored the heightened personal and political stakes in the upcoming bypoll.

Caste Dynamics and Electoral Challenge

The Nuapada by-election is emerging as a complex battle shaped by caste equations and local loyalties. Chhuria’s nomination signals BJD’s effort to consolidate its home turf advantage against defectors and opposition candidates. As campaigning intensifies, all eyes are on whether her insider advantage will outweigh BJP’s outreach efforts and sway voter sentiment.

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Jay Dholakia Named BJP Candidate for Nuapada By-Election

OdishaConnect — Wed, 15 Oct 2025 09:22:39 +0000

The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has announced Jay Dholakia, son of the late MLA Rajendra Dholakia, as its candidate for the upcoming by-election in the Nuapada assembly constituency. His nomination comes after a surprising switch to the BJP on October 11, defying expectations that he would join the Biju Janata Dal (BJD).

Nomination to Be Filed in Presence of CM Mohan Charan Majhi

Jay Dholakia is scheduled to file his nomination papers on October 16 in Nuapada, in the presence of Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi, signaling strong backing from his party. BJP Rajya Sabha MP Sujit Kumar confidently stated that Jay is likely to win by over 50,000 votes, asserting: “The BJD has not declared its candidate yet, and Congress is nowhere. BJP is going to win for sure.”

Political Drama After Sudden Party Switch

The bypoll has attracted attention due to Jay’s unexpected defection to the BJP. He had initially begun campaigning as a potential BJD nominee, and the party had seemingly prepared to include him in its official candidate list. His move has reshaped the political landscape in Nuapada, leaving the BJD scrambling and adding an element of suspense to the elections.

BJP Looks to Capitalize on Local Legacy

The by-election is shaping up to be a highly contested affair, with the BJP banking on Jay Dholakia’s local roots and the enduring legacy of his father. As nomination day approaches, political observers and voters alike will be closely watching Nuapada to see how this electrifying political battle unfolds.

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Nuapada By-election Process Kicks Off with Nomination Filing

OdishaConnect — Mon, 13 Oct 2025 09:35:57 +0000

In a significant announcement, the Chief Electoral Officer of Odisha has released the official schedule for the much-anticipated Nuapada by-election — a political event that is drawing intense attention across the state.

Nomination Process Underway

The by-election process commenced today with the filing of nomination papers, which will remain open until October 20. Candidates seeking to contest must ensure their documents are filed within this window to be considered for scrutiny.

Scrutiny and Withdrawal of Nominations

The verification of all submitted nomination papers is scheduled for October 22, ensuring strict adherence to electoral norms. Any candidate wishing to withdraw their nomination will have the final opportunity to do so by October 24, marking the last date for withdrawal.

Polling and Counting Dates Finalized

The by-election will be held on November 11, when voters across Nuapada will head to the polling booths to cast their votes. Counting of votes and declaration of results will take place on November 14, when the political fate of the contestants will be decided.

Completion of Election Process

The Chief Electoral Officer confirmed that the entire by-election process will conclude by November 16, emphasizing Odisha’s commitment to a transparent and efficient electoral system.

Political Excitement Builds Up

As the schedule unfolds, political parties have already begun shaping their campaign strategies for what promises to be a fiercely contested battle. The people of Nuapada, along with political observers, are eagerly watching how this by-election will influence the region’s political landscape.

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Jay Dholakia’s Loyalty to Naveen Patnaik Shattered as He Joins BJP, Leaving BJD Supporters in Shock

OdishaConnect — Sun, 12 Oct 2025 08:08:39 +0000

In a stunning political twist ahead of the Nuapada by-election, Jay Dholakia, son of late BJD MLA Rajendra Dholakia, has joined the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP). The move has sent shockwaves across the political circles of Nuapada, sparking intense debates and emotional reactions.

Shockwaves Before the By-Election

Jay Dholakia’s defection to the BJP has been seen by many as a betrayal of his father’s legacy, while others view it as a strategic political shift. His decision, coming just weeks before the crucial bypoll, has stirred both supporters and critics within the region. Senior BJD leader Pratap Jena was quick to respond, asserting that the people of Nuapada will never endorse Dholakia’s decision.

From Loyal BJD Worker to BJP Inductee

Until recently, Jay Dholakia was known for his unwavering loyalty to BJD supremo Naveen Patnaik. His dramatic switch was made official during a grand induction ceremony at the BJP’s state headquarters. The event witnessed the presence of Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi, Deputy Chief Minister Kanak Vardhan Singh Deo, and senior BJP leaders Basant Panda and Suresh Pujari, marking his formal entry into the saffron fold.

Criticism and Controversy Over Legacy

Pratap Jena and several political observers have sharply criticized Jay’s move, arguing that it betrays the ideals and legacy of his late father. Some even went so far as to say that, as an adopted son, Jay lacks Rajendra Dholakia’s “blood and principles.” The statement has deepened the emotional and ideological divide around his political choice.

BJP’s Calculated Strategy and Growing Speculation

Political analysts believe the BJP’s decision to bring Jay Dholakia on board is a calculated attempt to strengthen its base in Nuapada, a region historically influenced by the Dolakia family. The move has also fueled speculation that Jay may be fielded as the BJP’s official candidate in the upcoming by-election.

Other Parties Gear Up for the Battle

Meanwhile, the Congress has already announced Ghasiram Majhi as its candidate for the bypoll. Both the BJD and BJP have yet to declare their nominees, keeping the political suspense alive in Nuapada. The by-election, scheduled for November 11, is expected to witness a fierce three-cornered contest.

A Turning Point for Nuapada Politics

With Jay Dholakia’s defection, weeks of speculation have finally come to an end. His decision has not only reshaped the political narrative of Nuapada but also set the stage for a dramatic electoral showdown. As the campaign season begins, all eyes are now on how voter sentiment in this pivotal constituency will evolve in the coming days.

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Nuapada Bypoll: Will Ghasiram Majhi Tilt the Scales for Congress?

OdishaConnect — Tue, 16 Sep 2025 11:01:55 +0000

Nuapada By-Election Heats Up

As Nuapada prepares for a crucial by-election, political tensions are rising across Odisha. The contest is expected to be a three-way battle between the Biju Janata Dal (BJD), Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), and Congress, with each party viewing the poll as a test of grassroots strength and voter connection.

Congress Eyes Ghasiram Majhi as Candidate

In a strategic development, Odisha Pradesh Congress Committee (OPCC) President Bhakta Das has hinted at the possible candidature of senior leader Ghasiram Majhi. Speaking to the media, Das indicated that Majhi could be the party’s face in the upcoming bypoll, signaling a renewed approach by Congress to strengthen its local presence.

Majhi’s Political Clout

Majhi, who was denied a ticket in the last general election, had contested independently and secured over 51,000 votes, outperforming the official Congress candidate Sharad Patnaik, who managed only 15,000 votes. His strong performance has made him a formidable figure in Nuapada politics, and his return to the Congress fold as a district coordinator has further reinforced his influence.

Bhakta Das highlighted Majhi’s loyalty:

“He will not be sold to the highest bidder,”
signifying Congress’s confidence in his commitment and popularity.

Previous Election Scenario

In the previous election, the BJD candidate won with 61,000 votes, while Majhi, running independently, finished second. Congress, despite being a national party, came in third. This by-election presents an opportunity for the party to reclaim lost ground by fielding a candidate with proven voter appeal.

Impact on Bypoll Dynamics

Political analysts believe Majhi’s candidature could significantly influence the bypoll dynamics. His past performance and strong grassroots connections have already made rival parties cautious. The BJD and BJP are expected to adjust their strategies in response to his potential entry.

High Stakes in Nuapada

The by-election in Nuapada is more than just filling a vacant seat—it is a litmus test for Odisha’s major political players. With Congress aiming to reclaim influence, the BJD defending its stronghold, and the BJP seeking expansion, the stakes remain high.

As campaigning intensifies, all eyes will be on Nuapada to see which party can sway the electorate and emerge victorious in this high-stakes battle.

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