Odisha assembly Deputy Speaker Rajanikanth Singh resigns; Hints at potential Lok Sabha candidacy in 2024 elections

Amid preparations for the upcoming general elections in 2024, Odisha assembly deputy speaker Rajanikanth Singh made a significant announcement on Wednesday, stepping down from his position in order to actively engage in party activities. Singh cited his constitutional duties as a barrier to full participation in party affairs, prompting his decision to relinquish the post and focus on strengthening the Biju Janata Dal (BJD) in his region.

After formally submitting his resignation to speaker Pramila Mallick at the state assembly, Singh emphasized, "The deputy speaker’s post is a constitutional one, for which I was unable to participate in party activities. It was a pending decision. I tendered my resignation given the upcoming elections. It will facilitate me to strengthen the party organization and reach out to the people. Henceforth, I will work for the party and organization, aiming to bolster the BJD's influence in my constituency."

The move has sparked speculation that Singh could potentially emerge as the BJD's Lok Sabha candidate from Dhenkanal in the impending 2024 elections, adding further intrigue to the evolving political landscape in the state.

Having been a member of the Odisha assembly since 2004, Singh has played a pivotal role in regional politics, previously serving as the mines minister in Naveen Patnaik's cabinet from 2012 to 2014. Representing the Angul assembly segment, Singh's decision to prioritize active involvement in party affairs reflects the ongoing preparations and strategic maneuvering ahead of the crucial general elections slated for next year.