TNI Bureau: Odisha’s BJD has issued whip instructing its members in Lok Sabha to vote against the UPA government in the Parliament over the issue of FDI in retail, which has been on debate for two days.

BJD chief whip, Bhartuhari Mahatab, asked all its 13 members to be present in the Lok Sabha on Wednesday when voting will take place on FDI issue after the debate.

The main opposition BJP along with SP and BSP has been opposing the Centre’s decision allowing FDI in retail sector. The opposition believes that the FDI will affect the livelihood of small traders in the name of giving jobs to unemployed youths.

The debate in the Lok Sabha was held under Rule 184 and the discussion on the issue will be held in Rajya Sabha on Dec 6 and 7 under rule 168, which requires vote.

The BJD made it clear at a meeting on Tuesday that they will issue whip today. However, it is unclear whether the whip will be applicable on suspended BJD leader Pyari Mohapatra.