BJD Expels Senior Leader Pravat Biswal for Opposing Rajya Sabha Nomination Decision

The Biju Janata Dal (BJD) expelled senior leader Pravat Ranjan Biswal for indiscipline and opposing party president Naveen Patnaik's decision to nominate Santrupt Misra for the Rajya Sabha elections. Biswal, a three-time MLA, openly challenged the nomination despite the party's political affairs committee authorizing Patnaik's choice. After his expulsion, Biswal expressed dissatisfaction with leadership promotions and intends to seek a discussion with Patnaik. BJD MP Debashish Samantray recalled Biswal's past involvement in a 2012 coup attempt against Patnaik.