Opposition Solidarity Shines as Santrupt Misra and Dr. Datteswar Hota Submit RS Nominations
Synopsis
In a historic move for Odisha politics, BJD's Santrupt Misra and joint opposition candidate Dr. Datteswar Hota have officially filed their nominations for the Rajya Sabha elections, showcasing a rare unity among opposition parties.
Key Takeaways
Santrupt Misra of BJD and Dr.
Datteswar Hota are key candidates for Rajya Sabha.
Historic collaboration among opposition parties in Odisha.
BJD president Naveen Patnaik expresses confidence in their victory.
Hota vows to focus on Odisha's healthcare development.
Four Rajya Sabha members are retiring, necessitating these elections.
Bhubaneswar, March 5 (NationPress) In a notable political event, senior leader of the Biju Janata Dal (BJD), Santrupt Misra, accompanied by the opposition's unified candidate, Dr. Datteswar Hota, officially submitted their nomination papers for the upcoming Rajya Sabha biennial elections on Thursday.
Among those present during the nomination process at the Assembly were former Chief Minister and BJD president Naveen Patnaik, Odisha Pradesh Congress Committee (OPCC) chief Bhakta Charan Das, Congress Legislature Party leader Rama Chandra Kadam, and various senior leaders from opposition parties. The candidates presented their nominations to Satyabrata Rout, the Legislative Assembly Secretary and returning officer for the elections.
Following the submission of their nomination papers, BJD leader Patnaik expressed his satisfaction, stating, “I am delighted to announce that both our candidates for the Rajya Sabha elections, Dr. Misra and Dr. Hota, have successfully filed their nominations. I extend my congratulations to both and am confident they will achieve a resounding victory.”
OPCC president, Das, voiced optimism regarding the joint opposition candidate's success, marking a historic moment in Odisha's political landscape where all like-minded parties have united to endorse the esteemed Urologist, Dr. Hota, as a common candidate for the benefit of the state. He emphasized that this collaboration is a significant milestone.
Das firmly dismissed any chances of cross-voting, assuring that opposition MLAs will adhere to their party directives during the voting process.
“This is a battle of principles and ethics. As a healthcare professional, serving the community is not just my responsibility but my moral duty. I sincerely thank the BJD, Congress, and CPI(M) leaders for granting me this chance to submit my nomination and further serve the public. If elected, I will work tirelessly for the advancement of Odisha, focusing especially on the healthcare sector,” Dr. Hota articulated.
On the other hand, BJD candidate and former corporate leader, Misra, asserted that all BJD MLAs are committed to ensuring the success of both candidates endorsed by party chief Patnaik.
It is important to note that these elections have become necessary due to the retirement of four Rajya Sabha members from Odisha on April 2. The outgoing representatives include Niranjan Bishi and Muzibulla (Munna) Khan from BJD, as well as Sujeet Kumar and Mamata Mohanta from the ruling BJP.
Point of View
The recent nomination submissions by BJD's Santrupt Misra and the opposition's Dr. Datteswar Hota represent a critical moment in Odisha's political narrative. The collaboration among various parties to endorse a common candidate highlights the evolving dynamics of state politics, emphasizing solidarity and strategic alliances in the face of electoral challenges.
NationPress
8 May 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
Who filed nominations for the Rajya Sabha elections in Odisha?
Senior BJD leader Santrupt Misra and joint opposition candidate Dr. Datteswar Hota filed their nominations for the Rajya Sabha biennial elections.
What was the significance of this nomination?
This nomination reflects a rare unity among opposition parties in Odisha, marking a historic collaboration for the benefit of the state.
Who were present during the nomination process?
Former Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik, OPCC chief Bhakta Charan Das, and other senior opposition leaders were present during the nomination.
What did Dr. Datteswar Hota say about his nomination?
Dr. Hota expressed gratitude for the opportunity to serve and emphasized his commitment to the development of Odisha, especially in the health sector.
Why are these elections taking place?
The Rajya Sabha elections are necessary due to the retirement of four members from Odisha on April 2.
