The simultaneous conduct of the Odisha state assembly polls and Lok Sabha elections marks a crucial moment in the state's political landscape. Scheduled in four phases on May 13, 20, 25, and June 1, alongside the corresponding phases of the general elections, these elections will witness intense political campaigning and competition among various parties. The term of the current assembly, elected in 2019, is set to expire on June 2.
In the last assembly elections in 2019, the Biju Janata Dal (BJD) emerged as the dominant force, securing 113 out of the 147-member assembly seats. The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) won 23 seats, establishing itself as the primary opposition, while the Congress managed to secure only nine seats.
Here's the full schedule for the Odisha assembly polls:
• Issue of notification: April 18, 26, 29, and May 7
• Last date of notification: April 25, May 3, 6, 14
• Scrutiny of nomination: April 26, May 4, 7, 15
• Last date of withdrawal of candidature: April 29, May 6, 9, 17
• Date of poll: May 13, 20, 25, and June 1
• Results: June 4
In contrast, during the 2019 Lok Sabha elections, out of the 21 seats in Odisha, the BJD secured 12 seats, while the BJP clinched eight, leaving the Congress party with a single seat.
In 2019, Odisha Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik defied the national trend where the BJP appeared to be sweeping most parts of the country. Despite the BJP's strong performance elsewhere, the regional party secured a significant victory in the state.
With this win, Patnaik achieved a remarkable feat by becoming the third chief minister in the country to hold power for a fifth consecutive term. He joined the ranks of former West Bengal CM Jyoti Basu and Sikkim’s Pawan Kumar Chamling, solidifying his position as one of India's longest-serving and most influential political leaders.
The recent developments suggest that there were intense discussions between the BJP and BJD regarding a potential alliance for the upcoming Lok Sabha and assembly polls. Despite their separation in 2009, the two former allies explored the possibility of a seat-sharing agreement for both the assembly and Lok Sabha elections. The BJD, regarded as a "friendly party" to the ruling BJP, has previously supported the Union government on significant legislative matters.
Analysts say the forthcoming elections in Odisha are poised to witness a triangular contest, with the BJD eyeing a historic sixth consecutive term in power. Meanwhile, the BJP is seeking to bolster its seat tally. Additionally, the Congress, which has been out of power since 2000, is endeavouring to make a comeback in the state's political landscape.
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