Diversity hallmark of Odisha’s women MPs

At a time when the Bill proposing reservation of one-third of Lok Sabha seats for women is pending in Parliament, Odisha has not only elected 33% women but also ensured that they represent a diverse section of society.
Seven of the total 21 MPs from Odisha are women. While five have won on the Biju Janata Dal ticket, two are from the BJP.
In the tiny group, the diversity is truly remarkable — a former IAS officer, a doctor, an engineer and a grassroots leader. An ex-royal and a housewife complete the list.
Ever since Chief Minister and BJD chief Naveen Patnaik announced in March that his party would field 33% women candidates, it was expected that their representation would go up.Of the seven women candidates fielded by Mr. Patnaik, five emerged victorious while two of the three BJP candidates won.

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