Congress Explores Alliance with BJD for Odisha Rajya Sabha Seat
In a significant political development in Odisha, the Congress party is actively exploring the possibility of forming a joint strategy with the Biju Janata Dal (BJD) to field a consensus candidate for one of the four Rajya Sabha seats from the state in the upcoming biennial election. This move could potentially reshape the political landscape in Odisha and influence the balance of power in the upper house of Parliament.
Congress President Seeks Meeting with Naveen Patnaik
State Congress president Bhakta Charan Das confirmed on Wednesday that he has sought an appointment with BJD president and former Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik in the first week of February to discuss this crucial proposal. The tenure of four current Rajya Sabha members from Odisha is set to end on April 2, creating an opportunity for strategic alliances.
"We are both in the opposition. If the BJD fields a candidate, we may not support them, and if we nominate someone, they may not support us. I sought time with Naveen Babu to discuss the issue," Das told media persons in Bhubaneswar, emphasizing the need for cooperation between opposition parties.
Strategic Calculations for the Fourth Seat
With the current political arithmetic in the Odisha Legislative Assembly, the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) is expected to comfortably win two Rajya Sabha seats, while the BJD is positioned to secure one. However, the fourth seat presents a unique challenge that neither the Congress nor the BJD can claim independently, creating the possibility for strategic collaboration.
Das elaborated on the political dynamics, stating: "The fourth Rajya Sabha seat presents such an opportunity. Neither the BJD nor the Congress can win that seat independently." He further criticized both the central and state governments, asserting that it is the responsibility of opposition parties to explore alternative possibilities when established systems fail.
Proposal for Eminent Consensus Candidate
The Congress leader suggested an innovative approach to the Rajya Sabha nomination, proposing that if an eminent personality from Odisha—such as a distinguished writer, celebrated poet, or Padma awardee—is considered in the interest of the state, a consensus could be explored between the two parties.
"Such a nomination would enhance the state's stature. A dialogue can be initiated in that direction to uphold political values. That is why I sought an appointment with Naveen Babu. If he gives time, I will meet him and discuss," Das explained, stressing the importance of maintaining healthy political dialogue and prioritizing state interests over partisan politics.
BJD's Cautious Response
Responding to the Odisha Pradesh Congress Committee (OPCC) chief's remarks, BJD spokesperson Lenin Mohanty maintained a measured stance, indicating that there was no immediate clarity on what the PCC president intends to convey through his proposal.
"People from all walks of life and leaders across the political spectrum meet Naveen Babu. The BJD president will convey his stand on the Rajya Sabha election at the appropriate time," Mohanty stated, suggesting that the party leadership would address the matter when deemed appropriate.
Electoral Mathematics and Political Realities
The Rajya Sabha terms of current members Mamata Mohanta and Sujeet Kumar (both from BJP), along with Munna Khan and Niranjan Bisi (both from BJD), will conclude on April 2. With 147 members in the Odisha Legislative Assembly, a candidate requires 31 votes to secure a Rajya Sabha seat.
The political calculations reveal:
- The BJP, with 79 MLAs and support from 3 independent legislators, is well-positioned to secure two seats
- The BJD, with 50 MLAs, can comfortably win one seat
- The fourth seat would require a joint effort by two parties to overcome the required threshold
However, sources within the BJD indicate that the party is likely to field only one candidate and may be reluctant to support the Congress for the remaining seat, suggesting potential challenges in reaching a consensus despite the Congress's overtures.
Political Implications and Future Prospects
This development marks a potentially significant shift in Odisha's political dynamics, where the Congress and BJD have traditionally maintained distinct political positions. The outcome of these discussions could influence not only the Rajya Sabha representation from Odisha but also set precedents for opposition cooperation in future electoral scenarios.
The proposed meeting between Bhakta Charan Das and Naveen Patnaik, if it materializes, will be closely watched by political observers across the state and nationally, as it could signal new alignments in Odisha politics ahead of crucial elections.
