BJD Takes Action: Show-Cause Notices Issued to Six MLAs for Cross-Voting in Rajya Sabha Elections
Synopsis
In a bold move, BJD has issued show-cause notices to six MLAs for defying party orders during the Rajya Sabha elections, revealing internal tensions and the importance of party loyalty.
Key Takeaways
BJD issued notices to six MLAs for cross-voting against party lines.
Actions deemed a serious breach of party discipline.
MLAs must respond within three days Failure to respond may lead to disciplinary actions .
11 legislators cross-voted in total, impacting election results.
Bhubaneswar, March 17 (NationPress) The leading opposition party, Biju Janata Dal (BJD), has taken a significant step by issuing show-cause notices to six of its legislators for their decision to support the BJP-backed independent candidate during the recent Rajya Sabha elections for four seats from Odisha, which contravened party instructions.
The legislators named in the notice, issued by BJD Chief Whip Pramila Mallik, include Baliguda MLA Chakramani Kanhar, Jayadev MLA Naba Kishore Mallick, Choudwar-Cuttack MLA Souvic Biswal, Basta MLA Subasini Jena, Tirtol MLA Dr. Ramakanta Bhoi, and Banki MLA Devi Ranjan Tripathy.
Mallik emphasized that the actions of these MLAs during the Rajya Sabha polls on Monday represent a serious violation of party discipline and an act of disloyalty to the trust placed in them by the BJD.
She pointed out that their voting behavior not only breached party directives but also contradicted the decisions made in the BJD Legislature Party meeting held on March 15. Their actions stand in conflict with the fundamental tenets of the Biju Janata Dal Constitution, which demands unwavering loyalty to collective party decisions.
“It has been conclusively proven that you voted against the aforementioned directive, supporting a candidate not endorsed by the Biju Janata Dal. This is evidenced by your mandatory display of the marked ballot to the party's authorized agent on March 16, 2026, thereby making your voting indisputable,” stated Mallik.
The senior leader of BJD further remarked that such behavior during the Rajya Sabha elections constitutes gross indiscipline, a breach of trust, and undermines BJD’s discipline, suggesting a voluntary renunciation of party membership.
“You are hereby required to respond within three days of this notice, explaining why disciplinary action should not be initiated against you, which may include suspension from the Biju Janata Dal and appropriate legal and constitutional proceedings based on your conduct, which may imply the voluntary relinquishment of BJD membership,” the notice reads.
Mallik added that if the MLAs fail to provide a satisfactory explanation by 5 p.m. on March 20, the BJD may proceed ex parte and enact measures deemed suitable according to the law, the constitution, and the rules of BJD.
It is important to highlight that a total of 11 legislators, including eight from BJD (two of whom are suspended) and three from Congress, cross-voted during the biennial Rajya Sabha elections held on Monday, leading to the victory of the BJP-backed candidate Dilip Ray.
Point of View
The actions of the BJD in addressing cross-voting among its MLAs reflect a crucial moment in party politics, highlighting the balance between individual choice and party loyalty in democratic processes.
NationPress
8 May 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
What prompted the BJD to issue show-cause notices?
The BJD issued show-cause notices due to six MLAs voting in favor of a BJP-backed independent candidate, which violated party directives.
Who are the legislators involved in this controversy?
The legislators include Chakramani Kanhar, Naba Kishore Mallick, Souvic Biswal, Subasini Jena, Dr. Ramakanta Bhoi, and Devi Ranjan Tripathy.
What are the potential consequences for these MLAs?
If they do not provide a satisfactory explanation, they may face disciplinary action, including suspension from the BJD.
How many legislators cross-voted during the elections?
A total of 11 legislators, including eight from BJD and three from Congress, cross-voted during the Rajya Sabha elections.
What does this incident indicate about party discipline?
This incident underscores the importance of party discipline and collective decision-making within political parties.
