14 Feb 2026·Source: The Hindu

4 min

Polity & GovernanceNEWS

BJP Aims for Third Rajya Sabha Seat in Odisha

BJP expresses confidence in winning three Rajya Sabha seats from Odisha.

The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has expressed confidence in winning three out of the four Rajya Sabha seats from Odisha next month, despite lacking the required strength in the Assembly to secure the third seat independently. In the 147-member Odisha Legislative Assembly, the BJP has 79 MLAs, while the Biju Janata Dal (BJD) has 50, the Congress 14, and there are three Independents and one CPI(M) member. A candidate needs 31 first-preference votes to win a Rajya Sabha seat.

The BJP currently has the support of all three Independent MLAs. Vijay Singh Tomar, BJP in-charge of Odisha, stated that the party is confident of sending three Rajya Sabha members from Odisha.

Key Facts

The BJP is confident of winning three Rajya Sabha seats from Odisha.

The Odisha Legislative Assembly has 147 members.

The BJP has 79 MLAs.

The Biju Janata Dal (BJD) has 50 MLAs.

A candidate needs 31 first-preference votes to win a Rajya Sabha seat.

UPSC Exam Angles

GS Paper II: Parliament and State Legislatures – structure, functioning, conduct of business, powers & privileges and issues arising out of these.

Connects to the syllabus by examining the electoral process and political dynamics involved in Rajya Sabha elections.

Potential question types include statement-based questions on the composition and powers of the Rajya Sabha, and analytical questions on its role in Indian democracy.

In Simple Words

The Rajya Sabha is like a group of elders representing each state in the national government. Parties try to win seats for their members. In Odisha, the BJP wants to win more seats, but needs enough support from state MLAs to do so.

India Angle

In India, this matters because it affects how well Odisha's voice is heard in the national government. It influences decisions about things like development projects and funding for the state.

For Instance

Think of it like a society election where different groups try to get their members elected to the managing committee. Each group needs a certain number of votes to win a seat.

It matters because the people elected to the Rajya Sabha help make laws and policies that affect everyone's lives, from farmers to students.

Every vote counts in the Rajya Sabha elections, shaping the representation and voice of each state.

Visual Insights

Odisha Rajya Sabha Elections: Key Numbers

Key statistics related to the upcoming Rajya Sabha elections in Odisha, highlighting the seat distribution and required votes.

BJP MLAs in Odisha Assembly: 79
BJD MLAs in Odisha Assembly: 50
Votes needed to win a Rajya Sabha seat: 31
Independent MLAs supporting BJP: 3

More Information

Background

The Rajya Sabha, also known as the Council of States, is the upper house of the Indian Parliament. Its origin lies in the need for a second chamber to represent the states and ensure a more deliberative legislative process. The concept of a bicameral legislature, with an upper and lower house, is inspired by the British parliamentary system. The Constitution of India outlines the composition, powers, and functions of the Rajya Sabha. Over time, the Rajya Sabha's role has evolved. Initially, it was conceived as a check on hasty legislation passed by the Lok Sabha. Amendments to the Representation of the People Act and other laws have influenced the way Rajya Sabha members are elected. The Rajya Sabha's powers have been debated, particularly concerning money bills, where the Lok Sabha has greater authority. The role of the Election Commission of India is crucial in ensuring free and fair elections to the Rajya Sabha. The legal and constitutional framework governing the Rajya Sabha is primarily found in Part V of the Constitution, specifically Article 80, which deals with the composition of the Council of States. The Fourth Schedule of the Constitution allocates seats to each state and union territory in the Rajya Sabha. Various parliamentary procedures and rules also govern the functioning of the Rajya Sabha. Comparing the Rajya Sabha with upper houses in other countries, such as the United States Senate or the British House of Lords, reveals different models of representation and power. Some upper houses are directly elected, while others are appointed or hereditary. The powers of upper houses also vary, with some having the power to veto legislation and others having only advisory roles.

Latest Developments

Recent trends show increased political activity surrounding Rajya Sabha elections, with parties strategizing to maximize their representation. The use of independent candidates and alliances has become more common. Debates continue regarding the effectiveness of the Rajya Sabha in representing state interests and providing a check on the Lok Sabha. The role of the President of India in nominating members to the Rajya Sabha also remains a subject of discussion. Stakeholders have differing views on the Rajya Sabha's composition and powers. Some argue for reforms to make it more representative of state interests, while others defend its current structure as a necessary check on the lower house. The Parliamentary Standing Committees play a crucial role in reviewing legislation and providing recommendations to the Rajya Sabha. The conduct of members and adherence to parliamentary procedures are also areas of concern. Looking ahead, potential reforms to the Rajya Sabha could include changes to the election process, the allocation of seats, or the powers of the house. The increasing importance of regional parties in Indian politics may lead to greater emphasis on state representation in the Rajya Sabha. The ongoing debate about the balance of power between the two houses of Parliament is likely to continue. The role of the Vice-President of India, who serves as the ex-officio Chairman of the Rajya Sabha, is also significant in maintaining order and decorum in the house.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What are the key facts about the Odisha Rajya Sabha seat scenario that are important for the UPSC Prelims exam?

Key facts include the total number of seats in the Odisha Legislative Assembly (147), the number of seats needed to win a Rajya Sabha seat (31 first-preference votes), and the current strength of the BJP (79 MLAs) and BJD (50 MLAs). Also, remember the end date of the tenure for current MPs (April 2).

Exam Tip

Focus on remembering the numbers related to seat distribution and winning criteria. These are frequently asked in Prelims.

2. Why is the BJP's aim to win three Rajya Sabha seats from Odisha significant, even if they lack the independent majority?

It highlights the importance of strategic alliances and the role of independent legislators in Rajya Sabha elections. Even without a clear majority, the BJP aims to increase its representation in the Rajya Sabha, which can influence legislative outcomes. The support of independent MLAs becomes crucial in such scenarios.

3. What is the role of the Rajya Sabha, and how does the current situation in Odisha reflect the dynamics of state representation in the Indian Parliament?

The Rajya Sabha, or Council of States, represents the states in the Indian Parliament and ensures a more deliberative legislative process. The situation in Odisha reflects how political parties strategize to maximize their representation, often relying on alliances and the support of independent members, showcasing the complexities of state-level politics influencing national legislative bodies.

4. How might the BJP's attempt to secure three Rajya Sabha seats in Odisha impact the political landscape, and what are the potential implications for governance?

Securing more seats could strengthen the BJP's influence in the Rajya Sabha, potentially aiding in the passage of key legislation. This could lead to smoother implementation of central government policies in Odisha. However, it could also intensify political competition and alter the balance of power between the BJP and the BJD in the state.

5. Why is the Odisha Rajya Sabha election in the news recently?

The Odisha Rajya Sabha election is in the news because the BJP has expressed confidence in winning three seats despite not having the required majority in the Assembly. This has led to increased political activity and speculation about potential alliances and strategies.

6. What is the significance of the April 2nd date mentioned in relation to the Odisha Rajya Sabha seats?

April 2nd is the date when the tenure of the current BJD and BJP Rajya Sabha members ends. This necessitates the election to fill those vacant seats, making it a crucial date for political maneuvering.

Practice Questions (MCQs)

1. Consider the following statements regarding the election of members to the Rajya Sabha: 1. Members of the Rajya Sabha are elected by the elected members of the Legislative Assembly of the states. 2. The system of proportional representation by means of the single transferable vote is used in the election. 3. Nominated members of the State Legislative Assemblies are eligible to vote in the Rajya Sabha elections. Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

A.1 and 2 only
B.2 and 3 only
C.1 and 3 only
D.1, 2 and 3

Show Answer

Answer: A

Statement 1 is CORRECT: Members of the Rajya Sabha are indeed elected by the elected members of the Legislative Assembly of the states. This ensures representation of the states in the upper house. Statement 2 is CORRECT: The election uses the system of proportional representation by means of the single transferable vote, ensuring fair representation of different political groups. Statement 3 is INCORRECT: Nominated members of the State Legislative Assemblies are NOT eligible to vote in the Rajya Sabha elections. Only elected members can participate in this election.

2. In the context of Rajya Sabha elections, what is the minimum number of first-preference votes required for a candidate to win a seat in the Odisha Legislative Assembly, given that the total strength of the Assembly is 147?

A.29
B.31
C.37
D.74

Show Answer

Answer: B

According to the news summary, a candidate needs 31 first-preference votes to win a Rajya Sabha seat in Odisha. This is based on the total strength of the Odisha Legislative Assembly.

3. Which of the following statements accurately describes the composition of the Odisha Legislative Assembly as mentioned in the news?

A.BJD has 79 MLAs, BJP has 50 MLAs, Congress has 14 MLAs, and there are 4 Independents.
B.BJP has 79 MLAs, BJD has 50 MLAs, Congress has 14 MLAs, there are 3 Independents and 1 CPI(M) member.
C.BJP has 50 MLAs, BJD has 79 MLAs, Congress has 14 MLAs, and there are 4 Independents.
D.BJD has 79 MLAs, BJP has 50 MLAs, Congress has 10 MLAs, and there are 8 Independents.

Show Answer

Answer: B

According to the news summary, the BJP has 79 MLAs, the BJD has 50, the Congress has 14, and there are three Independents and one CPI(M) member in the Odisha Legislative Assembly.

4. Which of the following statements is NOT correct regarding the Rajya Sabha?

A.The Rajya Sabha is a permanent body and is not subject to dissolution.
B.One-third of the members of the Rajya Sabha retire every two years.
C.The Vice-President of India is the ex-officio Chairman of the Rajya Sabha.
D.The Rajya Sabha can directly reject a Money Bill.

Show Answer

Answer: D

Option D is NOT correct. The Rajya Sabha cannot directly reject a Money Bill. It can only delay it by a maximum of 14 days. The Lok Sabha has the final say on Money Bills. The other statements are correct regarding the Rajya Sabha's composition and functions.