BJD Seeks ECI Action Over ‘Second Ballot’ Allegations in Rajya Sabha Polls

Bhubaneswar: The Biju Janata Dal (BJD) on Tuesday urged the Election Commission of India (ECI) to take immediate statutory action over the alleged issuance of second ballot papers to two BJP MLAs during the Rajya Sabha elections 2026. The party has also sought an appointment with Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar.

Acting on the direction of party president and former Odisha Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik, BJD MP Sasmit Patra wrote to the poll panel highlighting alleged irregularities during polling on March 16. According to the letter, objections were raised at the time over the issuance of second ballot papers to BJP legislators Upasana Mohapatra and Purna Chandra Sethy.

Patra stated that despite on-the-spot objections and subsequent communication by the party leadership, the ECI has not yet issued any clarification or action taken report. He added that the matter had earlier been formally raised through an email sent by Patnaik on March 18.

The BJD alleged that issuing a second ballot paper after a vote has already been cast violates provisions of the Conduct of Election Rules, 1961, which allow a replacement ballot only under the prescribed “spoilt ballot” procedure.

Calling the alleged deviation a serious breach, the party said it undermines ballot accounting, voter intent, and the integrity of the electoral process. It further argued that in a Rajya Sabha election, where the electoral college is limited, such irregularities could materially influence the outcome.

The party has demanded a time-bound, independent and transparent inquiry into the matter, along with preservation and examination of all relevant records, including ballot paper accounts, video footage and observer reports. It also urged the Commission to take action in accordance with the law on votes cast using allegedly invalid second ballot papers.

Describing the issue as one concerning the enforcement of the rule of law in elections, the BJD has requested the ECI to schedule an early meeting with a party delegation to present its case in detail.