Bhubaneswar: The BJD on Thursday removed two of its legislators – Arvind Mohapatra and Sanatan Mahakud – from the party, accusing them of activities that go against its interests. Senior members also hinted that the duo had acted in ways inconsistent with the organisation’s values.
The party did not detail what actions led to the disciplinary measure. Mohapatra represents Patkura in Kendrapara district, while Mahakud is the MLA from Champua in Keonjhar.
An order issued by BJD President Naveen Patnaik confirmed the decision and stated that the suspension is effective immediately. The communication has been placed before the speaker of the Assembly, according to a party post on X.
Mohapatra is the son of Bijoy Mohapatra – once a close aide turned critic of Patnaik – who was first expelled from the BJD, later joined the BJP, and was ultimately removed from that party in 2024.
In the current Assembly, the BJD holds 50 of the 147 seats. The BJP commands the Treasury benches with 79 MLAs, backed by three Independents. The Congress accounts for 14 members, while the CPI(M) retains a single seat.
