Will BJD hold its horses?

BHUBANESWAR: Even though the political atmosphere in the State is hotting up with speculations rife about possible Rajya Sabha (RS) candidates, political parties are yet to take any decision in this regard. The polls for RS seats, including three in Odisha, are scheduled for March 30. Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik, who returned from a five-day visit to Delhi on Saturday evening, told mediapersons that a decision on candidates will be taken in consultation with senior leaders of the party.  The BJD has the numbers to win two seats, while for the victory of a third candidate it is falling short by two votes even if the allies and Independents remain with it. Sources said because of ‘horse-trading taint’ in 2010 polls, the BJD may not field a third candidate this time. But there is a strong opinion in the party favouring  a third candidate with the belief that the Congress and the BJP can’t reach a consensus over an Independent candidate like the last time. The BJD, which has 103 members in the Assembly, may also prop up an Independent for the third seat. The party leadership believes that an Independent candidate will have more flexibility and attract votes of Independents supporting the Congress and the BJP. Talks about such a possibility have thrown up names of several contenders. But all names are still in the realm of speculation. Since the Chief Minister  is back, he will take a decision soon about the number of candidates, to be fielded by the party, said a senior BJD leader. The Congress has already decided not to field any candidate because of inadequate numbers. Efforts are, however, on to find a consensus candidate who will be acceptable to both Opposition parties and Independents. But any name is yet to emerge. A strong faction in the BJP wants to abstain. The party is also toying with the idea of backing an Independent. However, a decision is yet to be taken in this regard.