BHUBANESWAR: The BJP on Monday nominated former BJD leader Sujeet Kumar as its candidate for the upcoming Rajya Sabha by-election in Odisha, marking another strategic political acquisition from the ruling party.
Kumar, who resigned from both the Upper House and BJD in September before joining the BJP, will contest for the same seat he previously vacated. With BJP holding 78 seats in the 147-member assembly, his victory appears certain, especially as BJD and Congress are unlikely to field opposing candidates.
This move follows a similar pattern where former BJD Rajya Sabha member Mamata Mohanta, who resigned on July 31 and joined BJP, was re-elected to the Upper House on a BJP ticket.
“I will continue to work for the 4.5 crore people of Odisha, especially for the people of Kalahandi,” Kumar told reporters after his name was announced by the BJP.
Kumar, who hails from Kalahandi district, will serve the remainder of his original term until April 2, 2026, upon re-election. He is scheduled to file his nomination later in the day for the bypoll scheduled on Dec 20.
Kumar brings significant credentials to his role, having practised in the Supreme Court, various high courts, and tribunals. He holds an MBA from Oxford University’s Saïd Business School and a Master’s in Public Administration from Harvard Kennedy School.
