BJD to abstain from no-confidence motion against Dhankhar

BJD Rajya Sabha member Niranjan Bisi says the regional party was not consulted by the INDIA alliance regarding the motion

The Biju Janata Dal (BJD) has decided not to support the no-confidence motion proposed by the INDIA alliance against Rajya Sabha Chairman Jagdeep Dhankhar.

BJD Rajya Sabha member Niranjan Bisi said the regional party was not consulted by the INDIA alliance regarding the motion and, therefore, would abstain from the process.

Former Chief Minister and BJD supremo Naveen Patnaik had recently emphasised that the party would take appropriate steps only after assessing the situation.

“Our leader Mr. Patnaik was not approached for discussions on this matter. As a result, we will not participate in the no-confidence motion,” Mr. Bisi clarified. The BJD currently holds seven seats in the Upper House of Parliament.

Political observers had speculated that the BJD might align with the INDIA alliance, given the party’s losses to the BJP in the last general and Assembly elections. Moreover, two former BJD Rajya Sabha members had resigned from the party and joined the BJP, adding to the anticipation.

Published - December 15, 2024 08:53 pm IST