Bhubaneswar, (Reporterspen) April 17: In a bold electoral move, Odisha Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik has announced his candidacy for not just one, but two constituencies in the upcoming state elections. Alongside his traditional stronghold of Hinjili, Patnaik will also contest from the Kantabanji constituency, signaling a strategic shift in the Biju Janata Dal’s (BJD) electoral playbook.
Kantabanji, located in Bolangir district, and Hinjili, in Ganjam district, hold significant political importance in their respective regions. By choosing to contest from both constituencies, Patnaik aims to further strengthen the BJD’s electoral prospects across western and southern Odisha.
Patnaik’s decision has sparked speculation among political circles, with many analyzing the potential implications of this dual candidacy. While some view it as a demonstration of confidence in his popularity and leadership, others see it as a calculated move to secure a decisive victory in both regions.
Hinjili has been a bastion for Naveen Patnaik, who has won the seat multiple times in previous elections by significant margins. Meanwhile, Kantabanji presents a new electoral frontier for the Chief Minister, offering an opportunity to expand the BJD’s footprint in western Odisha.
