BJD’s Sasmit Patra Resigns As Rajya Sabha Leader Amid Signs Of Internal Dissent
Move follows reported push by party MPs for leadership change; speculation grows over Santrupt Misra as successor
Bhubaneswar: In a significant political development, Biju Janata Dal (BJD) leader Sasmit Patra on Wednesday resigned as the party’s parliamentary leader in the Rajya Sabha, a move that has intensified speculation about internal discord within the regional outfit.
According to party sources, Patra submitted his resignation to BJD president Naveen Patnaik amid growing pressure from a section of the party’s Members of Parliament seeking a change in leadership in the Upper House.
The demand for his removal is learnt to have gathered momentum on the day newly elected BJD MP Santrupt Misra took oath in the Rajya Sabha. Sources indicated that several MPs formally conveyed their concerns to the party leadership, urging a reshuffle in parliamentary positions.
The BJD currently has six members in the Rajya Sabha. Patra had been serving as the parliamentary party leader since 2022 and was seen as a key figure in articulating and coordinating the party’s stance in the Upper House.
With his resignation, attention has now turned to his potential successor. Political circles are abuzz with speculation, with first-time MP Santrupt Misra emerging as a frontrunner for the role. However, there has been no official confirmation from either Patra or the BJD leadership on the resignation or the appointment of a new leader.
The development has triggered fresh debate over internal dynamics within the party and could have implications for its parliamentary strategy in the coming session.
Notably, three newly elected members from Odisha were sworn in to the Rajya Sabha on April 6. Misra’s entry marks his debut in parliamentary politics.
