Bhubaneswar: Senior Congress leader and former minister Ganeswar Behera announced his resignation from the primary membership of the party on Tuesday. Behera, a seasoned politician, conveyed his decision to Odisha Pradesh Congress Committee (OPCC) president Sarat Pattanayak in a resignation letter, expressing gratitude for the opportunity to serve the people of Odisha as an MLA and Congress worker.
Behera’s departure from the Congress fold comes amid growing speculation over his potential nomination by the ruling Biju Janata Dal (BJD) for the Kendrapada Assembly seat. The seat has become a focal point of contention within the BJD, leading to intense jostling over ticket allocation.
Addressing the media, Behera hinted at the possibility of joining the BJD, citing the overwhelming support and encouragement he has received from constituents and well-wishers in his constituency. The prospect of Behera’s candidacy under the BJD banner has sparked intrigue and anticipation among political observers in Odisha.
The Kendrapada Assembly constituency witnessed a closely contested battle in the 2019 elections, with Shashi Bhusan Behera of the BJD emerging victorious over Ganeswar Behera by a margin of 6320 votes. Despite facing defeat, Ganeswar has remained a formidable contender in the region, having contested in the previous two polls as well.
Behera’s decision to part ways with the Congress and potentially align with the ruling BJD underscores the fluid dynamics of Odisha’s political landscape. As parties gear up for the upcoming elections, the emergence of key players and realignments within the political arena will shape the electoral narrative in the state.
The Kendrapada Assembly seat, known for its political significance, is poised to witness heightened competition as parties vie for supremacy in the region. Behera’s potential candidacy under the BJD banner adds a new dimension to the electoral calculus, further intensifying the race for power in Odisha.
