Bhubaneswar, March 17 -- The Congress on Tuesday suspended three of its Odisha MLAs, Ramesh Jena, Dasarathi Gamang, and Sofia Firdous, for allegedly cross-voting in the Rajya Sabha elections held on March 16.

The party accused the legislators of violating the official whip and supporting a BJP-backed candidate, terming the move a serious breach of party discipline.

In a statement, the Odisha Pradesh Congress Committee (PCC) said the MLAs not only defied party directions but also acted against the party's interests and ideology. Taking strong note of the incident, the PCC announced their suspension with immediate effect.

Party sources indicated that further action, including expulsion, may also be considered. Congress media cell preside...