BJD Expels MP Sujeet Kumar Amidst Political Shift to BJP

The Biju Janata Dal (BJD) expelled Rajya Sabha MP Sujeet Kumar for 'anti-party activities' shortly after he resigned and joined the BJP. Kumar cited rampant corruption in Kalahandi during the BJD regime as his reason for leaving. His departure, following Mamata Mohanta's earlier exit, reduces BJD's Rajya Sabha members to seven.

The Biju Janata Dal (BJD) on Friday expelled Rajya Sabha MP Sujeet Kumar for 'anti-party activities', moments after he resigned from the Upper House of Parliament.

Kumar joined the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) in Delhi, welcomed by senior leaders including Union Minister Dharmendra Pradhan. BJD President Naveen Patnaik expressed disappointment over Kumar's actions, stating that he had let down the party and people of Kalahandi.

Kumar defended his decision, citing corruption in Kalahandi during the BJD regime. He claimed he was sidelined within the party and that his resignation was a conscious choice. Opposition Chief Whip Pramila Mallik criticized Kumar as opportunistic, while BJP leaders suggested more defections might follow.

(With inputs from agencies.)