Bhubaneswar, Odisha: Saluga Pradhan, Senior leader of the Biju Janata Dal (BJD), has been unanimously elected as the Deputy Speaker of the Odisha Legislative Assembly, filling the vacancy left by Rajanikanta Singh's resignation on November 8.

The appointment ceremony witnessed the Leader of the House and Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik proposing Pradhan's nomination, supported by Parliamentary Affairs Minister Niranjan Pujari. Notable figures including Patnaik, opposition BJP chief whip Mohan Majhi, and other senior members graced the proceedings.

Expressing gratitude in his inaugural address within the House, Pradhan extended thanks to all members and emphasized the importance of their collaboration for the efficient functioning of legislative sessions.

Pradhan formally submitted his nomination for the Deputy Speaker position on Monday, marking a significant step in his political journey. He holds the distinction of being a two-time MLA representing G. Udayagiri in the Kandhamal district within the Odisha Assembly.

Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik extended his congratulations to Pradhan, emphasizing, "The assembly stands as a pinnacle of democracy, and it's our collective responsibility to maintain the honor of this esteemed House through our behavior. I urge all esteemed members to offer their wholehearted support and collaboration to the deputy speaker in fulfilling his duties." Following his election, Pradhan affirmed, "I am committed to facilitating the House proceedings with efficiency. I am dedicated to respecting the perspectives of members from both ruling and opposition parties." Senior Congress MLA Dasarathi Gamang and BJP chief whip Mohan Majhi, both representing tribal communities, conveyed their congratulations to Pradhan and pledged their cooperation with him.

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