Congress shifted its Odisha MLAs to Bengaluru to prevent cross-voting in the upcoming Rajya Sabha election, intensifying resort politics ahead of the crucial contest.
Fourteen Congress leaders, including MLAs Mangu Khila, Appala Swamy, Rajan Ekka, and Ashok Kumar, arrived in Bengaluru on Thursday night. Odisha Congress chief Bhakta Charan Das and spokesperson Durga Prasad Panda accompanied them. Karnataka Deputy Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar supervised their arrival. Police escorted the group from Kempegowda International Airport to Wonderla Resort in Bidadi, Ramanagara district.
Congress sources said the move aimed to safeguard MLAs from the BJP’s alleged “Operation Lotus.” The party fears cross-voting could influence the outcome of the fourth Rajya Sabha seat. Congress extended support to BJD candidate Datteshwar Hota, while BJP fielded two candidates and backed Independent Dilip Ray.
The Odisha Assembly has 147 members. BJP holds 79 seats, BJD controls 50, and Congress has 14. The contest for the fourth seat depends on Congress’s votes. Dilip Ray requires support from at least eight MLAs outside his camp to win.
Shivakumar previously moved MLAs from Maharashtra and Gujarat to resorts near Bengaluru during similar situations. Congress leaders believe the current step strengthens their position and prevents defections.
The Rajya Sabha election in Odisha now hinges on whether Congress MLAs remain united in Bengaluru until voting day.
