Bhubaneswar: Odisha’s main opposition Biju Janata Dal (BJD) on Thursday suspended two sitting MLAs with immediate effect, citing anti-party activities.
An office order announcing the suspension of the two legislators was issued by BJD president Naveen Patnaik, who is now the Leader of Opposition (LoP) in Odisha Assembly.
As per the order, MLAs Arvind Mohapatra and Sanatan Mahakud are suspended from the Biju Janata Dal (BJD) with immediate effect for their alleged involvement in anti-party activities.
Arvind Mohapatra is the MLA of Patkura in Kendrapada district and the son of veteran leader and former minister Bijoy Mohapatra.
Sanatan Mahakud represents Champua constituency of Keonjhar district in the state Assembly.
The action comes days after Mahakud’s sharp criticism of the previous BJD government and his public praise for Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi.
Considered a strongman from Keonjhar, Mahakud reportedly accused the previous BJD government of failing to deliver meaningful development in the region despite being in power for 24 years. He also hailed CM Majhi as a leader of vision and integrity.
The suspension of Mohapatra and Mahakud highlights the BJD’s growing challenges in retaining cohesion after its debacle in 2024 general elections.
