Bhubaneswar, 1 August, 2024 — In a significant political development, BJD MP Mamata Mohanta has resigned from the Biju Janata Dal (BJD) and the Rajya Sabha, announcing her intention to join the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP). The resignation was accepted immediately by Rajya Sabha Chairman Jagdeep Dhankar.
Mohanta cited the diminishing relevance of her and her community's contributions within the BJD as the primary reason for her departure. "I feel that there is no requirement of the services of myself as well as my community in the Biju Janata Dal," she stated.
In response to Mohanta's resignation, the BJD has withdrawn its support for the NDA government in the Rajya Sabha. This political shift comes as the BJP prepares to contest and is expected to win the Rajya Sabha by-election from Odisha, given its current power in the state.
Mohanta's move to the BJP is seen as a strategic gain for the party, potentially bolstering its presence and influence in the upper house of Parliament. The bypoll outcome will be closely watched as it could impact the balance of power in the Rajya Sabha.
This development marks a critical moment in Odisha's political landscape, with potential implications for both the BJD and the BJP as they navigate this period of change and realignment.
