BJD Seeks EC Action Over Second Ballot Row in Rajya Sabha Polls
The Biju Janata Dal has approached Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar, alleging irregularities in the 2026 Rajya Sabha elections.
In a letter submitted by MP Dr Sasmit Patra on the direction of party president Naveen Patnaik, the BJD claimed that second ballot papers were illegally issued to MLAs Upasana Mohapatra and Purna Chandra Sethy.
The party argued that the issuance of replacement ballots violated the Conduct of Election Rules, 1961, which permit a second ballot only under the spoiled ballot procedure with strict compliance. The BJD said it filed objections on polling day before the Presiding Officer and Election Commission Observer, supported by video and photo documentation.
Despite these complaints, the party alleged that no action or response has come from the Election Commission. It has now urged the Commission to disclose steps taken, order an independent inquiry, and ensure that votes cast using allegedly illegal second ballots are treated according to law.
The BJD also requested an early meeting with the Chief Election Commissioner to present its case directly. The party’s move comes amid heightened scrutiny of the Rajya Sabha polls, where cross-voting and procedural disputes have already triggered political controversy in Odisha.
