BJD Issues Warning to Suspended MLAs Over Voting Compliance
Synopsis
As the Rajya Sabha elections approach, the BJD has reminded its suspended MLAs of their obligation to follow party directives. Non-compliance could lead to disqualification, emphasizing the party's commitment to maintaining discipline and unity.
Key Takeaways
BJD warns suspended MLAs to adhere to party whip before Rajya Sabha elections.
Non-compliance could result in disqualification under the Tenth Schedule.
Party discipline is crucial as it prepares for the upcoming elections.
Suspended MLAs still have a constitutional obligation to follow party directives.
The BJD aims to maintain unity and consolidate votes.
Bhubaneswar, March 15 (NationPress) In light of the upcoming Rajya Sabha election polling, the Biju Janata Dal (BJD) has issued a directive to two suspended MLAs to adhere to the party's whip and support its designated candidate.
Chief Whip (Opposition) Pramila Mallik sent distinct letters to Sanatan Mahakud (Champua MLA) and Arvind Mohapatra (Patkura MLA), emphasizing that despite their suspension for purported anti‑party actions, they are still constitutionally obligated to follow the party's instructions, as they were elected under the BJD banner.
Mallik highlighted in her correspondence that the party has formally instructed its members to vote in favor of its endorsed candidate for the upcoming Rajya Sabha elections.
The BJD made it clear that the two suspended legislators must comply with the party whip and cast their votes accordingly. Failure to do so, or abstaining without prior consent, could result in disqualification under the Tenth Schedule of the Constitution, which treats such actions as a voluntary resignation from party membership.
Mallik asserted, “Any action of voting against the party whip, or abstaining from voting without prior approval from the party, may invoke the provisions of the Tenth Schedule of the Indian Constitution, which can lead to disqualification on the grounds of voluntarily abandoning party membership.”
She also referenced the past disqualification of Sharad Yadav by the then Chairman of the Rajya Sabha, a decision upheld by the Supreme Court, to underscore the seriousness of non-compliance.
The correspondence further indicated that adherence to the party whip would be a factor in the evaluation of the two MLAs' suspension.
Mallik concluded, “The party expects you to honor the mandate that led to your election and adhere to the party whip. Your compliance with party directives will also be considered by the leadership during the review of your suspension.”
With the Rajya Sabha elections set for March 16, the BJD’s actions illustrate its strategy to solidify votes and maintain discipline within its ranks, even among those who have been suspended. Both Sanatan Mahakud and Arvind Mohapatra were suspended from the BJD in January this year due to their alleged involvement in anti‑party activities.
Point of View
The BJD's warning to its suspended MLAs highlights the party's resolve to maintain discipline and unity ahead of the critical Rajya Sabha elections. This move reflects the ongoing tensions within political parties and the intricate balance of power in Indian politics.
NationPress
9 Jul 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the significance of the BJD's directive to its suspended MLAs?
The BJD's directive underscores the importance of party discipline, especially before crucial elections, ensuring that even suspended members adhere to party policies to avoid disqualification.
What could happen if the suspended MLAs do not comply with the party whip?
Failure to comply with the party whip may lead to disqualification under the Tenth Schedule of the Constitution, which considers such actions as voluntarily abandoning party membership.
Who are the suspended MLAs mentioned in the BJD's warning?
The suspended MLAs are Sanatan Mahakud from Champua and Arvind Mohapatra from Patkura, both of whom were suspended for alleged anti-party activities.
When are the Rajya Sabha elections scheduled?
The Rajya Sabha elections are scheduled for March 16.
What precedent did Mallik cite regarding party whip compliance?
Mallik referenced the disqualification of Sharad Yadav, which was upheld by the Supreme Court, to highlight the seriousness of non-compliance with party directives.
