The political heat in Odisha is rising ahead of the Nuapada by-election, following a dramatic defection that has shaken the local power dynamics. Jay Dholakia, son of the late BJD MLA Rajendra Dholakia, has joined the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), triggering a fierce war of words between the state’s major parties.

Vacant Seat and Unexpected Defection

The Nuapada seat fell vacant earlier this year after the passing of Rajendra Dholakia, a trusted minister in Naveen Patnaik’s cabinet. Traditionally seen as the natural successor, Jay was expected to contest for BJD. However, on October 11, he officially joined the BJP in a ceremony attended by Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi and other top leaders, leaving the opposition scrambling. Jay is now the BJP candidate for the November 11 by-election, marking the first poll under Majhi’s 18-month-old administration.

BJD Voices Anger and Disappointment

BJD leaders have expressed outrage over the defection. Senior leader Pratap Jena criticized Jay as a “foster son” who has joined the BJP, accusing him of aligning with “melters and thieves” in a so-called “horse-trading” exercise. Jena asserted that despite his father’s legacy and previous cabinet elevation, Jay’s moral standing is questionable, while affirming that BJD’s electoral strength remains firm.

BJP’s Sharp Retort

BJP leader Jayanarayan Mishra fired back with pointed sarcasm, questioning BJD’s accusations. “Odisha doesn’t have any more horses left for trading, so how can we purchase what is not there?” he said, highlighting the confusion within the rival camp.

Race for Candidates Intensifies

As BJD hurriedly seeks a replacement for its earlier candidate Abhinandan Panda, son of former MP Basant Panda, multiple contenders are emerging for the bypoll. The Congress party is also closely observing, looking for opportunities to capitalize. With nomination day commencing today, the people of Nuapada are set to witness an intense electoral battle that could reshape state alliances.