This story is from October 14, 2020

Bhubaneswar: Revolt in BJD over Balasore Sadar nominee

A day after BJD named Swarup Kumar Das as its candidate for the Balasore Sadar by-election, supporters of the party’s Balasore unit district president Rabindra Jena revolted against it.
Bhubaneswar: Revolt in BJD over Balasore Sadar nominee
BJD protest(File Photo)
BHUBANESWAR: A day after BJD named Swarup Kumar Das as its candidate for the Balasore Sadar by-election, supporters of the party’s Balasore unit district president Rabindra Jena revolted against it.
Jena’s supporters gathered at his office and shouted slogans demanding a change. They said the party leadership should rethink its decision.
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Either Rabindra Jena or his wife Subasini Jena should be made BJD candidate in the bypoll otherwise the party will have to pay a heavy price in the forthcoming by-election, said a supporter.

Senior BJD leader Pratap Deb, roped in by the party to pacify the dissidents, held discussions with supporters of Jena for around two hours at Balasore. “I have held detailed discussions with the workers, who are a bit unhappy. I will convey my concerns to the party leadership,” Deb told reporters after meeting the agitating supporters of Jena.
On Monday, Balasore district observer and housing and urban development minister Pratap Jena also held discussions with the agitating supporters.

Briefing reporters, Rabindra appealed to the workers to remain calm. “I request all my supporters to maintain discipline. BJD is a disciplined party and chief minister Naveen Patnaik emphasizes on discipline. Two senior leaders have discussed with the supporters. They will discuss with the party leadership,” said Rabindra.
The ruling party on Monday named Swarup, a former councillor of Balasore Municipality, as its candidate for Balasore Sadar. BJD sources said Swarup’s name was announced on Rabindra’s recommendations.
While Rabindra had earlier stated that he is not in the race for the party ticket, his wife was a contender for BJD ticket. Former MLA Jiban Pradip Das, who had unsuccessfully contested the 2019 assembly election from Balasore Sadar seat, was also eyeing the ticket. Sources said Swarup has been fielded as the BJD candidate with an eye on the urban votes.
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