BJD Leader Mamata Mohanta Resigns Amid Speculations of Joining BJP

Mamata Mohanta, a prominent leader of the BJD, resigned from her party and her position as a Rajya Sabha MP. Her resignation is perceived as a precursor to joining the BJP. Opposition leaders accused a national party of conspiracy behind her resignation, while BJP insiders suggest she might be re-elected to her vacated seat.

Mamata Mohanta, a leading figure in the BJD, resigned from her party on Wednesday, shortly after stepping down as a Rajya Sabha MP. Her resignation letter to BJD president Naveen Patnaik indicated her belief that her contributions and those of her community were no longer valued within the party.

Expressing gratitude for the opportunity to serve both Mayurbhanj and Odisha at the national level, Mohanta stated her decision to relinquish her primary membership of the BJD. Rajya Sabha Chairman Jagdeep Dhankhar confirmed the receipt and acceptance of her resignation letter, noting its constitutional validity.

The BJD’s representation in the Rajya Sabha has now dwindled to eight members, with the party lacking any seats in the Lok Sabha. Sources within the BJP suggest that Mohanta may soon join their ranks and could be re-elected to her previous position with the party's support. Meanwhile, opposition leaders believe her resignation is part of a broader conspiracy by a national party to boost its numbers in the Rajya Sabha.