Why is BJD Choosing Not to Vote in the Upcoming VP Elections?
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Synopsis
In a pivotal announcement, BJD MP Sasmit Patra reveals the party's decision to abstain from the upcoming vice-presidential election, maintaining neutrality between the NDA and INDIA bloc. This choice underscores BJD’s commitment to prioritizing Odisha's development over political affiliations.
Key Takeaways
- BJD abstains from vice-presidential election.
- Party maintains neutral stance between NDA and INDIA bloc.
- Focus remains on Odisha's development.
- Election features candidates from NDA and INDIA bloc.
- Jagdeep Dhankhar's resignation was due to health concerns.
New Delhi, Sep 8 (NationPress) Biju Janata Dal (BJD) MP Sasmit Patra revealed on Monday that the party has opted to abstain from the voting process in the vice-presidential election set for Tuesday. Emphasizing the party's neutral position, Patra stated that the BJD continues to uphold an equidistant stance from both the BJP-led National Democratic Alliance (NDA) and the opposition INDIA bloc.
In a conversation with IANS, Sasmit Patra remarked, “Following consultations with our esteemed party president Naveen Patnaik, senior members, and the political affairs committee, the BJD has resolved to abstain from tomorrow's vice-presidential election.”
“The BJD maintains its distance from both the NDA and the INDIA bloc. Our main priority lies in the development and welfare of Odisha,” he concluded.
The forthcoming vice-presidential election will feature a contest between Maharashtra Governor CP Radhakrishnan, the NDA's candidate, and retired Supreme Court judge B. Sudershan Reddy, the nominee from the INDIA bloc. This election is particularly crucial following the unexpected resignation of Jagdeep Dhankhar, who cited health issues for his departure.
The BJP organized a 'Sansad Karyalaya' on Sunday, with an additional session planned for Monday to prepare its MPs for the voting procedure.
Additionally, Congress President and Leader of the Opposition in the Rajya Sabha, Mallikarjun Kharge, is scheduled to host a dinner for the INDIA bloc MPs this evening at the Parliament Annexe.
Voting will occur from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Tuesday, with the counting of votes commencing at 6 p.m. that same evening. Members of both Houses of Parliament—543 elected members of the Lok Sabha (with one vacancy) and 245 members of the Rajya Sabha (including 12 nominated members and five current vacancies)—will constitute the electoral college.
Jagdeep Dhankhar resigned from his vice-presidential role on July 21, indicating that he was stepping down to prioritize healthcare based on medical advice.
This resignation, submitted under Article 67(a) of the Constitution, took effect immediately. Dhankhar had held the position of vice-president since 2022 and was previously the governor of West Bengal from 2019 to 2022.
Point of View
It is crucial to recognize the BJD's strategic decision to abstain from the vice-presidential election. This move showcases a calculated approach to maintain political neutrality while focusing on regional development in Odisha. The implications of such a stance could resonate across the national political arena, highlighting the importance of prioritizing state welfare over party alliances.
NationPress
08/09/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What prompted the BJD to abstain from the vice-presidential election?
The decision was made after discussions with party leadership and aims to maintain political neutrality while focusing on Odisha's development.
Who are the candidates in the upcoming vice-presidential election?
The candidates include Maharashtra Governor CP Radhakrishnan from NDA and retired Supreme Court judge B. Sudershan Reddy from the INDIA bloc.
When will the voting for the vice-presidential election take place?
Voting is scheduled for Tuesday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., with counting starting at 6 p.m.
Why did Jagdeep Dhankhar resign as vice-president?
Jagdeep Dhankhar resigned to prioritize healthcare and follow medical advice, effective immediately.
