Jajpur, Odisha – June 2024:
In a significant political shift, Pradeep Bal Samanta, popularly known as Tutu Bal, secured a resounding victory in the Sukinda Assembly Constituency in the 2024 Odisha State Elections. Contesting on a BJP ticket, Samanta garnered 86,733 votes, claiming 50.56% of the vote share, and defeating the incumbent Pritiranjan Gharai of the Biju Janata Dal (BJD).
This win is considered a major breakthrough for the BJP in Jajpur district, historically seen as a stronghold for the BJD. Gharai, who previously held the ministerial portfolio for Rural Development and Skill Development, faced criticism over rising unemployment and stagnant local development — issues that Samanta leveraged throughout his campaign.
Pradeep Bal Samanta, a businessman and social worker by profession, campaigned on promises of industrial transparency, youth employment, and improved civic infrastructure. His personal connection with local communities and grassroots outreach under the banner of “change and development” helped him win voter confidence across tribal and rural belts.
Following his victory, Samanta was inducted into the Mohan Charan Majhi-led cabinet as Minister of State (Independent Charge) for Cooperation, Handloom, and Textiles — a portfolio seen as vital for Odisha’s rural and traditional economic sectors.
Locals have high expectations from the new minister, particularly regarding better access to government schemes, employment through industrial corridors like Kalinganagar, and a resolution to long-standing issues such as pollution and safe drinking water in the mineral-rich but underserved region.
This victory also signals BJP’s expanding footprint in Eastern Odisha, as the party made impressive inroads in the 2024 assembly elections across districts previously dominated by the BJD.
As Sukinda transitions under new leadership, all eyes are now on how Pradeep Bal Samanta will deliver on his promises and steer local development forward.
