Odisha: Nuapada bypoll turns into a prestige test for BJP, BJD

The bypoll in western Odisha's Nuapada is the first since the Mohan Majhi government came to power in 2024. The seat fell vacant after sitting BJD MLA Rajendra Dholakia passed away in September. The contest has turned into a prestige fight between the ruling BJP and the BJD. The BJP wants to showcase its influence after a year and a half in power, while the BJD seeks a comeback moment for the party and its leader Naveen Patnaik.

The BJP has fielded Dholakia's son, Jay Dholakia, who joined the party from the BJD in October. The BJD, which had planned to field him, has instead nominated former MLA and prominent woman leader Snehangini Chhuria. The Congress has put up veteran Ghasiram Majhi.

Chief minister Mohan Majhi has taken charge of the BJP's campaign in Nuapada. From roadshows to public meetings, he has been actively campaigning in the final days. Several cabinet ministers are stationed in Nuapada till Sunday to push the "double-engine government" agenda. Chhattisgarh CM Vishnu Deo Sai also campaigned on Thursday.


For the BJD, Jay Dholakia's switch was a setback, but the party has rallied behind Chhuria. BJD president Naveen Patnaik on Friday hit the campaign trail with a roadshow and public meetings, reminding voters of the BJD's governance record and promising a "new Nuapada."

With a large tribal population, the bypoll will also test the BJP government's popularity among tribal voters. Polling will be held on November 11 and counting on November 14.