Bhubaneswar: With Prof PJ Kurien’s term as the Raja Sabha deputy chairman ending, speculation is rife that senior Biju Janata Dal (BJD) leader and Rajya Sabha member Prasanna Acharya might be elevated to the post.
The BJD MP said he was unaware of any such move. “Such reports have come in the media but more than that, I have no such information. If a situation so arises, the party will take an appropriate decision,” said Acharya.
Acharya noted that the BJD’s stand was to maintain equal distance with the BJP and the Congress. “If there is a proposal, the Chief Minister will look into it,” he said.
The name of Trinamool Congress (TMC) MP, Sukhendu Ray, is also doing rounds for the coveted post. The new deputy chairman is expected to be selected in the coming Monsoon Session of the Parliament.