Congress Suspends Three Odisha MLAs for Cross-Voting in Rajya Sabha Elections

The Congress on Tuesday suspended three of its Odisha MLAs, Ramesh Jena, Dasarathi Gamang, and Sofia Firdous, for allegedly cross-voting in the Rajya Sabha elections held on March 16. The party accused the legislators of violating the official whip and supporting a BJP-backed candidate, terming the move a serious breach of party discipline. In a statement, the Odisha Pradesh Congress Committee (PCC) said the MLAs not only defied party directions but also acted against the party’s interests and ideology. Taking strong note of the incident, the PCC announced their suspension with immediate effect. Party sources indicated that further action, including expulsion, may also be considered. Congress media cell president Arabinda Das confirmed that the party is reviewing the matter. Earlier, PCC president Bhakta Charan Das had confirmed the cross-voting and said the issue had been reported to the All India Congress Committee (AICC). Expressing concern over the development, Das said he was particularly surprised by the conduct of Ramesh Jena, adding that such a move was unexpected. He also made it clear that the three MLAs would not be allowed to sit with the Congress in the Assembly. The development has triggered political ripples in Odisha, with the Rajya Sabha elections witnessing instances of cross-voting across party lines. The episode has also exposed internal divisions within the Congress unit in the state. The party is expected to take a final call on further disciplinary measures in the coming days.