Lok Sabha Elections 2024: BJP aims to strengthen hold in Western Odisha, Dharmendra Pradhan key figure in poll strategy

The BJP aims to maintain and improve its performance in western Odisha, focusing on the leadership of Dharmendra Pradhan. The party won three out of five Lok Sabha seats in the region in 2019, and is working to secure its position in the upcoming polls. Pradhan, a prominent leader in the state, is contesting from Sambalpur this time. BJP faces competition from BJD, which has a strong presence in the region with schemes for the poor and tribals. The upcoming elections in Odisha are crucial, with Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik contesting from two seats, indicating a tough contest.