Odisha BJP Nominates Candidates for Rajya Sabha Polls; Opposition Fields Common Candidate

The Odisha BJP has nominated state unit chief Manmohan Samal and MP Sujeet Kumar for the March 16 Rajya Sabha elections, aiming to secure two seats with its 79 MLAs and support from three Independents. The BJD has fielded Santrupt Misra and backed a common opposition candidate, doctor Datteswar Hota, supported by Congress and CPI(M). Former union minister Dilip Ray plans to contest as an Independent with BJP backing, making the fourth seat competitive amid cross-voting possibilities.