Speculation grows in Odisha’s political circles over whether Naveen Patnaik, Leader of Opposition and former Chief Minister, will move to the Rajya Sabha.
Four Rajya Sabha seats are set to fall vacant, and one is expected to go to the Biju Janata Dal (BJD) without contest. Party insiders suggest that the leadership is considering sending Naveen Patnaik to the Upper House.
Naveen Patnaik served as Odisha’s Chief Minister for 25 years. Before that, he represented Aska in the Lok Sabha after the death of his father, Biju Patnaik, in 1997. He won again in 1998 and 1999, later serving as a Union Minister in Atal Bihari Vajpayee’s government. In 2000, he returned to Odisha and became Chief Minister, a position he held until his party’s defeat in the last election.
At 79, Naveen Patnaik is seen as needing more rest. A Rajya Sabha seat would allow him to remain active in national politics while spending more time in Delhi. Supporters argue that his candidature would settle internal disputes over nominations.
BJD leaders have not confirmed the move. When contacted, they declined to comment, saying no decision has been finalised. However, sources indicate that if Naveen becomes the candidate, the party will avoid further controversy.
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