Bhubaneswar, March, 25: The absence of Congress leader Chiranjib Biswal during the announcement of the party’s manifesto for the upcoming elections has sparked speculations about the former MLA joining the BJD
. On Saturday, Congress president of Jagatsinghpur unit, Natabar Barik, convened a press meet to unveil the party’s manifesto. While several local leaders attended the meet, Biswal stayed away from the party event.
As the general elections draw closer, Biswal’s repeated absence from various party meetings in the district, including the recent press conference, has fueled rumors about his potential departure from the Congress. In February, local Congress leaders organized a get-together at Nuagaon after Biswal’s suspension from the party was revoked. Interestingly, during this event, the leaders refrained from using any Congress banner or symbol.
During that gathering, Biswal had hinted that he would reveal his political plans within 10 days. However, a month has passed without any significant developments. Congress leaders in Jagatsinghpur express concern over Biswal’s frequent absence from party meetings, including four press conferences in the district. Although Congress has recommended Biswal’s name to the AICC for the Jagatsinghpur Assembly seat, the leader continues to skip party meetings regularly.
Meanwhile, the Congress party’s manifesto for Jagatsinghpur includes promises such as the establishment of a medical college and hospital, a monthly pension of ₹2,000 for farmers, free distribution of 200 units of electricity to domestic consumers, employment opportunities for around five lakh youths, and an unemployment allowance of ₹3,000 per month.
The political landscape remains dynamic, and Biswal’s next move will be closely watched by observers and voters alike.
