Odisha Election 2024: Fresh Faces Dominate as First-Time MLAs Make Their Mark

Bhubaneswar: In a significant shift from the political status quo, the recently concluded elections in Odisha have ushered in a wave of fresh faces, with at least 82 first-time MLAs securing victories in the 147-member State Assembly.

This influx of new legislators has not only challenged the established order but also reflects the changing dynamics of the state’s political landscape.

Many of these first-time MLAs have achieved remarkable feats, defeating heavyweight leaders and seasoned politicians in their respective constituencies.

The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) stands out with the highest number of first-timers, accounting for 52 out of its 78 newly-elected MLAs, a staggering 67% share.

The success of these newcomers can be attributed to various factors, including the Modi wave, anti-incumbency sentiments against the ruling Biju Janata Dal (BJD) government, and a growing desire for change among the voters.

Prominent faces include BJP’s Laxman Bag, who defeated BJD supremo Naveen Patnaik in the Kantabanji assembly seat, and Durga Prasan Nayak, another first-timer, who triumphed over four-time MLA Atanu Sabyasachi Nayak from the Mahakalpada constituency.

The trend is not limited to the State Assembly; seven out of the 21 newly-elected Lok Sabha members from Odisha are also first-timers, all hailing from the BJP.

While the BJD has managed to retain a considerable share of seats with experienced candidates, the success of first-timers across party lines is noteworthy.

The Congress party has also seen nine out of its 14 newly-elected MLAs being first-timers (64.2%), while all three independent candidates who won Assembly seats are newcomers, defeating BJD heavyweights in their respective constituencies.