Bhubaneswar, 28 February (H.S.): The Biju Janata Dal (BJD) on Saturday announced the names of Santrupt Misra and Dr. Datteswar Hota as its candidates for the upcoming Rajya Sabha elections.

The announcement was made by BJD President and former Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik, who said the two nominees will represent the party in the Upper House of Parliament.

Santrupt Misra, a senior party leader from Cuttack, has been actively involved in the BJD’s organisational and political activities for several years. Having earlier contested a parliamentary election, Misra is regarded as a key strategist within the party structure and is now set to enter the Rajya Sabha.

Dr. Datteswar Hota, a noted urologist, has also been nominated by the party, reflecting the BJD’s emphasis on combining political experience with professional expertise in legislative representation. His induction marks a significant entry of a medical professional into parliamentary affairs.

Appealing for broader support, Naveen Patnaik urged all parties to back Dr. Hota’s candidature and facilitate his election to the Rajya Sabha. He expressed confidence about a positive outcome in the upcoming polls.

The announcement follows several days of internal deliberations within the party leadership over the selection of suitable candidates. With the formal declaration of Santrupt Misra and Dr. Datteswar Hota as nominees, the BJD has formally set the stage for the Rajya Sabha elections.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Monalisa Panda