In a significant political development, the Biju Janata Dal (BJD) has announced Snehangini Chhuria as its candidate for the upcoming bypoll in the Nuapada Assembly constituency.
Party supremo Naveen Patnaik made the declaration following a key strategy meeting, nominating Snehangini Chhuria as the BJD’s contender. The party leadership has placed high confidence in Chhuria, viewing her as a strong representative for the constituency.
The bypoll in Nuapada was necessitated following the demise of the sitting BJD MLA and former minister Rajendra Dholakia, who passed away on September 8, 2025, at the age of 68. Dholakia, a four-time legislator, left a significant void in the constituency, prompting the party to field a prominent figure like Chhuria to retain its stronghold.
It’s worth noting that prior to the reveal, Naveen Patnaik convened a crucial huddle at his Naveen Niwas residence. Senior party leaders were summoned for deliberations, including Manoj Mishra, a member of BJD’s local action committee for the Nuapada election.
The Nuapada by-election is shaping up to be a litmus test for Odisha’s regional dynamics, pitting BJD’s organisational machinery against the national heavyweights Congress and BJP.
