Bhubaneswar: Political activity has intensified in Rourkela after senior BJD leader Sarada Prasad Nayak announced that he will not contest the 2029 Assembly elections.
Making the announcement on Thursday, Nayak said he has decided to stay away from the electoral battle due to health-related issues.
Clarifying his stance, the senior leader said his decision not to contest does not mean a retirement from politics. He will continue to remain active in party activities and will sincerely discharge any responsibility assigned to him by the party leadership.
Nayak further said that it is time for new faces and the youth to get more opportunities in politics.
His announcement has triggered fresh political speculation in Rourkela over who will be fielded as the BJD candidate in his place in 2029 and whether youth leadership will be given prominence.
