By Sarat Paikray
Minister Jual Oram has announced that he will no longer contest in electoral politics, although he will continue to remain active in politics through his party. His unexpected declaration, especially at a time when no elections are around the corner, has triggered widespread speculation and curiosity in political circles.
Typically, leaders make such statements during election seasons — either declaring their intention to contest or to retire. However, Jual Oram’s sudden and dramatic announcement has sparked discussions about the underlying reasons for such a move.
Oram, who was re-elected as MP from Sundargarh of Odisha in the 2024 general elections, currently serves as the Union Minister for Tribal Affairs. Notably, during his election campaign, he never indicated that this would be his final election. Had he made such a statement, it might have garnered more sympathy or support from voters. His decision now is being seen as possibly driven by deeper political motives.
At 64, Oram is still younger than many of his colleagues in the Union Cabinet. His health is not considered an obstacle, and he remains physically fit to contest elections. Furthermore, he belongs to a powerful political party — the BJP — which currently governs both the Centre and Odisha. Thus, it’s unlikely he fears the electoral battle.
According to close sources, Jual Oram is eyeing a nomination to the Rajya Sabha or possibly a Governor post. He is reportedly less inclined towards continuing as a Union Minister and is now seeking a constitutional position. In fact, he has publicly stated, “I have stepped aside from electoral politics for the new generation. But if an opportunity comes to serve as Governor or in Rajya Sabha, I won’t decline.”
Oram’s political journey is both significant and symbolic. He has been elected as an MLA in Odisha twice and has served as a Member of Parliament six times from BJP. For a long time, he was the lone face of BJP in Odisha, winning even when the party had little support in the state.
However, Oram has long harbored resentment over being sidelined in the previous Union Cabinet, where fellow Odia leader Dharmendra Pradhan was given a prominent position. Prime Minister Modi appeared to favor Pradhan at that time, resulting in Oram’s diminishing influence both at the Centre and in Odisha.
Although Oram has now been inducted into Modi’s latest Cabinet, the political scenario in Odisha has shifted. His stature in state politics may not remain the same as before. Observers believe that this may be why Oram now seeks to transition into a role such as Rajya Sabha member or Governor — remaining politically relevant without engaging in the electoral fray. Whether the Central leadership acknowledges and responds to his subtle pitch for a higher, non-elective post remains to be seen.
