Argus News - Naveen Patnaik Appoints Manas Ranjan Mangaraj As BJD's Floor Leader In Rajya Sabha

Bhubaneswar, Apr 13: Naveen Patnaik on Monday appointed Manas Ranjan Mangaraj as the leader of the Biju Janata Dal (BJD) in the Rajya Sabha, replacing Sasmit Patra, who resigned from the post last week.

Sulata Deo Named Deputy Leader, Chief Whip
Alongside the leadership change, Sulata Deo was appointed as the deputy leader and chief whip of the BJD Parliamentary Party in the Rajya Sabha.

The regional party currently has six members in the Rajya Sabha and no representation in the Lok Sabha.

Formal Intimation To Rajya Sabha Chairman
In a letter dated April 12 to the Rajya Sabha Chairman, Naveen Patnaik requested official recognition of the newly appointed leaders.

“It is requested that due official recognition may kindly be given to the newly appointed leaders of Biju Janata Dal in Rajya Sabha,” he stated.

The leadership reshuffle comes in the wake of the biennial elections to the Upper House held on March 16, 2026.

Also Read: Sasmit Patra Quits as BJD Rajya Sabha Parliamentary Leader

Sasmit Patra Extends Congratulations
Sasmit Patra congratulated the newly appointed leaders in a social media post.

“My heartiest congratulations to Shri Manas Ranjan Mangaraj ji on his appointment as Floor Leader of the BJD Parliamentary Party in the Rajya Sabha, and to Smt. Sulata Deo ji as Deputy Floor Leader and Chief Whip,” he wrote.

“I look forward to working closely under their leadership for the greater cause of Odisha. I also take this opportunity to express my deepest gratitude to our Hon’ble Party President, Shri Naveen Patnaik Ji, for his immense faith in me and for entrusting me with the responsibility of serving as BJD Floor Leader in the Rajya Sabha. I remain steadfast in my dedication to his vision and to the service of the Biju Janata Dal. I owe my journey to his guidance and will continue to uphold the values and principles of our party,” he added.