BHUBANESWAR, Mar 21: The Biju Janata Dal (BJD) has suspended six of its MLAs with immediate effect for indulging in anti‑party activities, including alleged cross‑voting in the recent election to the Rajya Sabha. In a disciplinary action circular issued by the central leadership, the party accused the lawmakers of violating the party whip and acting in a manner prejudicial to the organisation’s interests.
Party sources said the decision was taken after a review of the recent Rajya Sabha poll, where the BJD alleged that some of its legislators deviated from the official line and cast votes in favour of a rival candidate, leading to the defeat of the party’s nominee. The suspensions, which are without prejudice to further disciplinary measures, are seen as an attempt by the BJD to tighten internal discipline ahead of upcoming elections and to send a stern message against any show of factionalism.
The affected MLAs have been barred from attending party meetings and legislative sessions until further orders, while the state leadership has been directed to initiate detailed probes into the full extent of the anti‑party conduct. The move has triggered speculation about possible realignments within the party’s legislative wing, even as the BJD emphasises unity and adherence to the party line in the face of growing political competition in Odisha
