In a dramatic culmination to one of Odisha’s most-watched bureaucratic beauty contests, former Chief Secretary Pradeep Kumar Jena has emerged victorious as President of the prestigious Bhubaneswar Club, defeating two-time incumbent Asit Kumar Tripathy by a mere 18 votes in a fiercely contested election.
The elections, held amid high anticipation following e-voting on Saturday and ballot polling on Sunday, drew from a robust electorate of 2,321 members—including 1,922 individuals and 399 corporate voters. Results were declared shortly after 6 PM, capping a campaign marked by rival panels led by Jena and Tripathy, both heavyweight former Chief Secretaries whose influence extends far beyond the club’s manicured lawns.
Jena, currently serving as Chairman of the Odisha Electricity Regulatory Commission, campaigned on a “vote for change” platform, positioning himself as a fresh force against Tripathy’s established reign. His narrow win—18 votes—highlights the club’s polarised loyalties, with Tripathy’s “Bikash Eka Jatra” (progress is a journey) slogan failing to retain the presidency despite his track record, including a landslide 714-vote victory in the 2023-25 cycle.
The poll extended beyond the top post, revealing a fragmented outcome in the panel-based battle. Jena’s slate scored a decisive blow in the Secretary race, where retired IPS officer Lalit Das—recently appointed Chairman of the Odisha Subordinate Staff Selection Commission in October 2024—overpowered Tripathy-backed businessman Tutul Kishore Das by 76 votes.
However, Tripathy’s panel fought back resiliently. Businessman Pragati Mohanty secured the Vice Presidency with a commanding 60-vote lead over Jena’s contender, health specialist Dr P. V. Mohan, signalling strong support from corporate and entrepreneurial members.
In the Joint Secretary contest, Sambit Mohanty clinched victory by 68 votes against Jena’s Prashant Nath.
*This is a developing story. Updates on full vote tallies and reactions forthcoming.*
