BJD nominates Manas Mangaraj as its new leader in Rajya Sabha

The Biju Janata Dal (BJD) on Monday (April 13, 2026) informed the Rajya Sabha about the appointment of Manas Ranjan Mangaraj as the new leader of its Parliamentary Party in the Upper House.

The appointment follows the resignation of Sasmit Patra, who stepped down after informing BJD president and former Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik.

Mr. Mangaraj, a first-time Rajya Sabha MP, will lead the party in the Upper House, while Sulata Deo has been appointed deputy leader and chief whip.

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At a press conference held at the party office, senior vice-president Debi Prasad Mishra and vice-president Pradeep Amat welcomed the appointments and congratulated both Mr. Mangaraj and Ms. Deo.