Bhubaneswar, (Reporterspen), May 6: Khandapada MLA Soumya Ranjan Patnaik quashed all uncertainties today by formally lodging his candidacy as an Independent contender for the imminent elections, eyeing the Ghasipura Assembly constituency in Odisha.
His decision, announced amidst a public gathering in Ghasipura, Keonjhar district, was driven by the overwhelming support and encouragement of his constituents. Patnaik cited the persistent pressure from various circles as a compelling factor behind his election bid.
A mere three days prior, Patnaik’s visit to Keonjhar was met with a hearty reception from locals, where he sought blessings from Maa Tarini. During this visit, he disclosed the Bharatiya Janata Party’s (BJP) offer of nomination for the Ghasipura seat. However, despite initial discussions, the BJP ultimately fielded Shambhunath instead of Patnaik for the position.
In the 2019 elections, Soumya Patnaik clinched victory in the Khandapada constituency under the Biju Janata Dal (BJD) banner. Nevertheless, approximately eight months ago, he faced expulsion from the party over allegations of making anti-party statements and purported involvement in a loan fraud case.
For the forthcoming Ghasipura Assembly seat elections, Patnaik will confront competition from BJD’s Badri Patra, BJP’s Shambhunath Rout, and Congress’ Subrat Chakra.
