Odisha Congress suspended three legislators on Tuesday for defying the party whip during the recent Rajya Sabha elections.
The disciplinary action came after the MLAs allegedly voted in favour of a BJP-backed candidate.
The suspended leaders include Ramesh Jena, Dasharathi Gamang, and Sofia Firdous. Their decision to cross-vote triggered immediate backlash within the party, which accused them of violating organisational discipline.
State Congress leaders announced the suspension, stressing that the party would not tolerate actions that undermine collective strategy. They described the move as necessary to protect the credibility of the organisation.
The Rajya Sabha elections exposed deep divisions within the Congress camp. By supporting a rival candidate, the three MLAs openly challenged the party’s authority. Their suspension signals a strong message to other members about the consequences of indiscipline.
Cuttack City Congress president Giribala Behera has been expelled from the party for engaging in activities deemed anti‑party.
