Bhubaneswar: In a significant demonstration of political force, the All India Congress Committee (AICC) has mobilized a team of 40 senior leaders to campaign for the upcoming bye-election in Odisha’s Nuapada Assembly constituency. The party officially approved this powerful list of star campaigners on Friday, signaling a major push to win this crucial tribal-dominated seat. 
Congress Sends 40 Heavyweights for Nuapada Bypoll Battle


The bye-election in the 71-Nuapada constituency became necessary after the resignation of the sitting Member of the Legislative Assembly (MLA). Political observers view this contest as a critical test for the Congress party. The party aims to rebuild its presence in Odisha following a less-than-ideal performance in the recent 2024 state assembly elections. The election is set for November 20.

A Strategic Blend of National and Local Firepower

The Congress campaign strategy clearly relies on a mix of national influence and regional connection. The list of campaigners features prominent figures from across India who can draw crowds and generate media attention. At the same time, it includes well-known local leaders from Odisha who understand the specific issues facing the constituency.
Notable national figures on the campaign trail include former Chhattisgarh Chief Minister Bhupesh Baghel and senior leader from Rajasthan, Sachin Pilot. Their involvement underscores the national importance the party is placing on this single seat. They will be joined by other influential voices like Kanhaiya Kumar and Alka Lamba.
However, the backbone of the campaign will be Odisha’s own political veterans. Leaders such as Niranjan Pattnaik, Srikanta Jena, and Narasingha Mishra are expected to lead the local charge. Their deep-rooted connections within the state are vital for anchoring the campaign’s narrative and connecting with the electorate on familiar ground.

Focus on Grassroots Mobilization in a Triangular Contest

The electoral battle in Nuapada is a fierce triangular contest, with the Congress facing off against the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and Odisha’s strong regional party, the Biju Janata Dal (BJD). With a substantial electorate of approximately 1.2 lakh voters, every vote counts.
Starting next week, the Congress campaigners will spread out across the constituency. Their mission is to energize the party's grassroots workers and connect directly with voters. The planned activities include large public rallies, smaller corner meetings, and intensive door-to-door canvassing.
The party’s messaging will likely focus on key local issues. These include promises of enhanced tribal welfare schemes, accelerated rural development, and highlighting public dissatisfaction with the current ruling administrations. The Congress hopes its star power will effectively translate into a compelling local message.

A Bellwether for Congress Fortunes

The Nuapada region, known for its mineral resources and historical challenges, is a significant political landscape. A victory for Congress here would provide a massive morale boost and signal a potential revival for the party in the state. Conversely, a loss would be a significant setback.
As polling day on November 20 draws closer, all attention is fixed on Nuapada. The question on everyone's mind is whether the Congress party's high-profile campaign brigade can convert their star appeal into actual votes. Political analysts are predicting a very close race, with the outcome likely to have ramifications beyond this single constituency.
The campaign trail is now set for a flurry of activity, and the political atmosphere in Nuapada is intensifying. The result will be a key indicator of the shifting political dynamics in Odisha.