Rajya Sabha polls: Congress moves 8 Odisha MLAs to Karnataka due to cross-voting fears

In a strategic move ahead of the Rajya Sabha elections, the Congress party has relocated eight of its MLAs from Odisha to a resort near Bengaluru to mitigate the risk of cross-voting. The party had previously summoned all 14 MLAs to Bhubaneswar, where discussions were held regarding the election strategy. The decision to move the MLAs stems from concerns about potential defections or votes against the party line, which could jeopardize their chances in the upcoming elections. This tactic has been employed by various political parties in the past to prevent dissent and ensure loyalty among their legislators during crucial electoral processes. With the Rajya Sabha elections approaching, the Congress aims to bolster its position by securing votes and maintaining party unity, particularly in a state where political dynamics can be unpredictable. The party's proactive measures reflect its commitment to safeguarding its interests and maximizing its representation in the upper house of Parliament.