Today, six blocks in the state are holding crucial elections. BJP and BJD are once again competing, just two months after the general elections. These elections are important for both parties, as they try to secure areas that were previously controlled by BJD. The stakes are high, with the political situation now more unpredictable.
The Panchayat Samiti referendum will decide the leaders for five block chairpersons, one vice-chairperson, and the Chairman of Kendrapada District Council. Both BJP and BJD have crafted strategies to win these seats, but the results are uncertain.
In Ganjam’s Kukudakhandi block, part of the Dakhiphandi Constituency, a referendum is happening after the chairman’s death. Out of 12 association members, seven reportedly support BJP, giving the party an edge. However, the situation in Khallikot block is still unclear.
Narla in Kalahandi, Raighar in Nabarangpur, and Bhapur block in Niagara also face uncertain outcomes. Narla, once a BJD stronghold, now presents a different scenario. In Raighar, after Navina Naik’s resignation, 18 out of 26 Samiti members support BJD, while six back BJP. However, BJP may benefit from internal tensions within BJD. In Bhapur, the situation is complicated for BJP, as former president Savitri Pradhan claims support from 17 out of 20 Samiti members.
These elections are critical for both parties. BJP aims to strengthen its position, while BJD is working to regain its influence. The results will be a key indicator of the state’s political direction.