Bhubaneswar, Mar 12: Amid concerns over possible cross-voting in the upcoming Rajya Sabha elections, the Congress party has issued a whip to all its MLAs in the Odisha Legislative Assembly, directing them to remain in Bhubaneswar until March 16. The move comes as the party seeks to ensure strict voting discipline during the election process.

Odisha Pradesh Congress Committee (OPCC) President Bhakta Charan Das instructed the party legislators to be present in the state capital and actively participate in the voting process. The directive is aimed at preventing any last-minute absences or defection that could affect the party’s position in the crucial election.

The Congress leadership has taken the precautionary step amid fears that cross-voting by MLAs could influence the final outcome. The party is keen to safeguard its votes and ensure that its candidate receives full support during the polls.

The Rajya Sabha election in Odisha has become particularly significant this year, with five candidates contesting for four seats. The candidates include BJD’s Santrupt Misra and joint candidate Dr. Datteswar Hota, supported by BJD, Congress and CPI(M). BJP has fielded Manmohan Samal and Sujeet Kumar, while Independent candidate Dilip Ray is also in the fray with BJP backing.

Voting will take place inside the Assembly premises from 9 am to 4 pm on March 16, with counting scheduled to begin at 5 pm the same day.

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