Akhilesh Yadav meets Congress leader Srikant Jena as Samajwadi Party eyes expansion in Odisha

Former Chief Minister of Uttar Pradesh and leader of the Samajwadi Party, Akhilesh Yadav, visited Bhubaneswar, generating substantial political discourse. In a press conference alongside former Union Minister and senior Congress leader Srikant Jena, Akhilesh outlined the Samajwadi Party’s ambitions to expand its influence in Odisha.

Akhilesh expressed a keen interest in expanding the Samajwadi Party's reach in Odisha, recognising the current limitations of its influence in the state. He articulated plans to galvanise support and engage a broader supporters to establish a significant presence.

Party Expansion Efforts 

Yadav emphasised the strategic importance of Odisha for his party and highlighted the need to enhance its organisational structure in the region, where the party currently lacks a significant footing.

“We are committed to strengthening our presence in Odisha by engaging with more people on the ground,” he remarked.

“Well, I have come to Odisha on several occasions. But, today’s visit is special. I had met senior leader Srikant Jena in Delhi. To fulfill Babasaheb Bhimrao Ambedkar’s dream of equality, respect, and inclusivity, I have come here to meet my friend, secular and democratic senior leader Srikant Jena. With the dream of Ambedkarji, we aim to expand the Samajwadi Party in Odisha,” Akhilesh Yadav stated.

“Our effort is that our message and thoughts reach out to the masses and hopeful people will join us,” he added.

Potential Role for Srikant Jena

The visit has spurred speculation concerning Jena's future role, with discussions hinting at his involvement in fortifying the party's state operations. Known for his advocacy of social justice, inspired by Dr B.R. Ambedkar's vision, Jena’s engagement could signal strategic enhancements to the party’s social agenda.

Yadav hinted at the possibility of Jena assuming a leadership position within the Samajwadi Party in Odisha. Though not explicitly confirmed, Yadav alluded to Jena possibly playing a leadership role in fortifying the party's operations in Odisha. This potential was underscored by Yadav's prompt visit to Jena's home immediately upon arrival in the city.

Aligning with Ambedkar’s Vision

Both leaders aligned their discussions with the principles of social justice, as championed by Dr B.R. Ambedkar, a vision Jena actively promotes within Odisha.

Comparisons to Uttar Pradesh Politics

Referencing BJP’s 'double engine' government concept, Yadav criticised the perceived disconnect among ruling bodies, citing Uttar Pradesh as a case in point.

In a comparative note, Yadav referenced the political scenario in Uttar Pradesh, critiquing the 'double engine' government approach. He suggested that this model, which involves synchronised governance between state and central governments, had not met its anticipated goals.