Odisha Congress Legislators Moved to Bengaluru Ahead of Rajya Sabha Elections

In a strategic move ahead of the Rajya Sabha elections, eight Congress legislators from Odisha have been relocated to a resort in Bengaluru. This action raises suspicions about potential political maneuvers by the ruling BJP to influence these legislators. With the Odisha Assembly's political landscape shifting, the BJP aims to secure seats through alliances and cross-voting. The situation highlights the ongoing political dynamics in the region as parties prepare for the upcoming elections.

By Narendra Chaudhary Mar 13, 2026, 13:08 IST

Congress Legislators in Bengaluru Resort

Eight Congress legislators from Odisha have been transported to Bengaluru and are currently staying at a resort. There are concerns that the ruling BJP in the eastern state may attempt to sway them before the Rajya Sabha elections scheduled for March 16. According to government sources, the legislators arrived on Thursday night along with their families and were taken to the Wonderla Resort in Bidadi, Bengaluru, under the supervision of Karnataka's Deputy Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar.

Details of the Legislators' Arrival

A government source revealed that a total of 14 individuals from Odisha have been brought to the resort, including the eight legislators and their family members. The political influence of Karnataka's Deputy Chief Minister is notable in the Bidadi area of Bengaluru South. The Odisha Pradesh Congress Committee President, Bhakta Charan Das, facilitated the legislators' trip to Bengaluru. Local officials have identified five of the legislators as Mangu Khilla, Pabitra Saunta, Kadraka Appala Swami, Rajan Ekka, and Praful Pradhan.

Political Landscape in Odisha

In the 147-member Odisha Assembly, the Bharatiya Janata Party holds a majority with 79 legislators. It is anticipated that the party will send three members to the Rajya Sabha with the support of independent legislators and cross-voting. The Biju Janata Dal (BJD), which has 48 legislators, is expected to send one member. However, by forming an alliance with the 14-member Congress, the BJD aims to secure a second seat with the backing of a CPI(M) legislator and three independents.