Sun Mar 01 02:10:44 UTC 2026: ### BJD Expels Former MLA Pravat Ranjan Biswal Over Rajya Sabha Nomination Dispute

The Story:
The Biju Janata Dal (BJD) expelled former MLA Pravat Ranjan Biswal on Saturday for “indiscipline and anti-party activities.” This decision came shortly after Biswal publicly criticized Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik’s choice of candidates for the Rajya Sabha, specifically opposing the nomination of Santrupt Misra. Biswal argued that decisions regarding Rajya Sabha nominations should be made collectively and that long-serving party members should be prioritized.

Biswal’s expulsion highlights internal tensions within the BJD regarding candidate selection processes and the perceived lack of consultation. While the party leadership maintains that all MLAs were consulted and that the party remains united, Biswal’s public dissent suggests otherwise.

Key Points:

  • Pravat Ranjan Biswal, a former three-time MLA, was expelled from the BJD.
  • The expulsion was triggered by Biswal’s public criticism of Naveen Patnaik’s Rajya Sabha nomination decisions.
  • Biswal opposed the candidature of Santrupt Misra, arguing for rewarding long-term party workers.
  • Biswal had previously been suspended in 2012 following an alleged coup attempt but was later reinstated.
  • He was arrested in September 2017 in connection with a chit-fund scam and denied a ticket in 2019, though his son won the seat.
  • Senior BJD MLA Pramila Mallik claims the party consulted all MLAs and remains united.

Key Takeaways:

  • The expulsion demonstrates the BJD’s intolerance for public dissent, particularly regarding leadership decisions.
  • Internal disagreements over candidate selection processes may indicate deeper divisions within the party.
  • The event emphasizes the power and authority wielded by Naveen Patnaik within the BJD.
  • The expulsion could potentially alienate some grassroots supporters loyal to Biswal.
  • This incident underscores the challenges of maintaining party unity in the face of differing opinions and ambitions.

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