BJD’s Sasmit Patra Resigns As Rajya Sabha Leader Amid Signs Of Internal Dissent

Bhubaneswar: In a major political development, Biju Janata Dal (BJD) leader Sasmit Patra on Wednesday resigned as the party’s parliamentary leader in the Rajya Sabha; It was a move that intensified speculation about internal discord within the regional union.

According to party sources, Patra submitted his resignation to BJD chief Naveen Patnaik amid mounting pressure from a section of the party’s MLAs seeking a change of leadership in the Upper House.

It is learned that the demand for his removal gained momentum on the day when newly elected BJD MP Santrupt Misra was sworn in in the Rajya Sabha. Sources stated that many MPs have formally conveyed their concerns to the party leadership and called for changes in parliamentary duties.

BJD currently has six members in the Rajya Sabha. Patra had served as party leader in parliament 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 and first-time MP Santrupt Misra is a frontrunner for the role. However, there was no official confirmation from either Patra or the BJD leadership about the resignation or appointment of a new leader.

This development has triggered new discussions about internal dynamics within the party and may have implications for the party’s parliamentary strategy in the upcoming session.

Remarkably, 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.