Allegations of cross-voting have triggered a major political controversy during the 2026 Rajya Sabha Election in Odisha, with multiple legislators from opposition parties reportedly voting against their party lines.
The development has created political ripples in Odisha, as leaders questioned the voting process and the actions of certain legislators.
BJD and Congress MLAs Under Cross-Voting Suspicion
In an updated development in the Rajya Sabha Election in Odisha, reports suggest that eight MLAs may have engaged in cross-voting, intensifying the political controversy. According to sources, three legislators from the Indian National Congress — Dasarathi Gomango, Sofia Firdous, and Ramesh Jena — allegedly voted against their party’s directive. Additionally, three MLAs from the Biju Janata Dal — Chakramani Kahnar, Soubhik Biswal, and Subasini Jena — are also suspected of cross-voting. Reports further indicate that suspended BJD legislators Sana Mohanty and Arvind Mohapatra may have cast votes contrary to the party’s position, adding a new dimension to the unfolding political developments.
According to political sources, two legislators from the Biju Janata Dal (BJD) — Soubhik Biswal and Chakramani Kahnar — are suspected of cross-voting during the Rajya Sabha polls.
In addition, reports indicate that Sofia Firdous, a legislator from the Indian National Congress, may have voted against the party’s official decision, further intensifying the political debate.
Political observers say the silence of some MLAs following the vote has increased speculation regarding how they cast their ballots.
Objection Raised by Senior BJD Leader
Senior BJD leader Pratap Keshari Deb raised strong objections over the alleged cross-voting and reportedly expressed dissatisfaction with election officials present at the venue.
He also questioned aspects of the voting process while lodging his concerns during the proceedings.
Reports Suggest Five MLAs Cross-Voted
Political discussions around the election suggest that five legislators may have engaged in cross-voting.
According to reports:
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Three MLAs from the Indian National Congress allegedly cross-voted.
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Two MLAs from the Biju Janata Dal are also suspected of voting against party directions.
Among the Congress legislators reportedly involved are:
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Ramesh Jena
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Dasarathi Gomango
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Sofia Firdous
Congress Leadership Responds
Confirming the development, Bhakta Charan Das, president of the Odisha Pradesh Congress Committee, said that three Congress MLAs had cross-voted in the Rajya Sabha election.
He stated that the matter had already been communicated to the All India Congress Committee (AICC) over the phone and that a written report would follow.
Das also expressed disappointment, noting that he did not expect certain legislators to vote against the party line. He added that the party leadership would review the issue and decide on further steps.
Silence of Sofia Firdous Raises Questions
Meanwhile, Sofia Firdous cast her vote and left the Assembly premises without speaking to the media. Her silence has added to speculation about how she voted.
The Congress MLA had earlier voiced dissatisfaction with some internal party decisions, which has further intensified political discussions around the alleged cross-voting.
Political Impact
Cross-voting in Rajya Sabha elections often becomes a sensitive issue as parties issue clear voting instructions to their legislators. Any deviation from the party line can trigger disciplinary action and deepen political tensions.
With allegations surfacing in the Odisha Rajya Sabha poll, both the ruling and opposition parties are expected to closely examine the voting outcome and take appropriate action if necessary.
