Bhubaneswar, 05 March (H.S.): Odisha Pradesh Congress Committee (PCC) president Bhakta Charan Das on Thursday expressed confidence that the joint candidate backed by Biju Janata Dal (BJD), Indian National Congress and Communist Party of India (Marxist) (CPI-M) will secure a decisive victory in the upcoming Rajya Sabha elections in India.

Addressing the media, Das said the three parties have taken a significant political decision to support Dr. Datteshwar Hota as their joint candidate for the Rajya Sabha seat. He expressed strong confidence that the united support would ensure his victory.

Das noted that such a collective political decision has been taken after many years. He said the proposal put forward by Naveen Patnaik, president of the BJD, was accepted by the All India Congress Committee (AICC), following which the parties decided to field a common candidate in the interest of the state.

Highlighting Hota’s credentials, the PCC chief said the doctor has made notable contributions to the healthcare sector, which prompted the parties to unite in support of his candidature. He described the move as a response to the demands of the time and termed it a historic decision in Odisha’s political history.

Das also ruled out the possibility of cross-voting and asserted that the alliance partners remain fully confident about the outcome.

He further stated that Naveen Patnaik continues to enjoy considerable popularity in the state and that the BJD still holds a strong position in terms of vote share.

Referring to the decision taken by Patnaik, Das said it reflects the same courage and political vision associated with his father, legendary leader Biju Patnaik, who was known for taking bold decisions in Indian politics.

Das concluded by reiterating that the victory of the joint candidate, Dr. Datteshwar Hota, is certain.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Monalisa Panda