Bhubaneswar, 16 March (H.S.): Amid allegations of cross-voting in the Rajya Sabha elections, BJD MLA Deviranjan Tripathy on Monday admitted that he voted for BJP-backed Independent candidate Dilip Ray instead of the party’s official nominee.

Tripathy said his decision was guided by his conscience and personal conviction. He stated that Ray represents the legacy of Biju Patnaik and added that he has always been inspired by the ideals and principles of the former Odisha chief minister.

The legislator further said that his vote was also intended to send a message to the party leadership. According to him, such situations arise when the voices of thousands of party workers are not heard by the leadership.

Tripathy claimed that his decision reflected the sentiments of numerous party workers. He also asserted that those who follow the right path should not fear any disciplinary action.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Monalisa Panda