TV
The Biju Janata Dal’s (BJD) support for the controversial Waqf Amendment Bill in Parliament has not only created rifts within the party but has also sparked strong reactions from the opposition. In a sensational statement, senior Congress leader and former Leader of Opposition Narasingha Mishra has made explosive allegations against the BJD’s top leadership, questioning the party’s autonomy and former Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik’s current political freedom.
Addressing the media on Sunday, Mishra alleged that BJD president Naveen Patnaik has been kept under “house arrest,” not just now but even in the past.
“There will be no existence of BJD in Odisha. It seems that BJD leaders are going to merge with BJP or there could be a united cabinet. Naveen Patnaik is no longer in control. He is being controlled from behind the scenes by his chief advisor. He has been placed under house arrest once again. He was under such control earlier too,” Mishra claimed, referring to alleged internal manipulation within the BJD.
Black Deal?
He further accused the BJD of compromising its independence and striking a “black deal” with the central government.
“Naveen has been taken to Delhi and black deals have been made in his name. This is no longer the BJD that was formed to uphold Biju Patnaik’s ideals,” Mishra alleged, hinting at covert political negotiations with the BJP-led Centre.
In a dramatic twist, Mishra also hinted at the possibility of a united cabinet being formed in the near future, suggesting possible behind-the-scenes political realignments.
Though he did not elaborate on who would be involved in such a coalition, his comments have added fuel to ongoing speculations about shifting alliances.
Despite the gravity of these allegations, there has been no official response from the BJD. Party leaders have so far chosen to remain silent on both their support for the Waqf Bill and the sharp criticism from Mishra.
Political observers believe these remarks by a veteran leader like Narasingha Mishra could stir up further debate and force the BJD to clarify its position on the bill and its internal decision-making process. With the election season heating up, such pointed accusations could play a significant role in shaping public discourse and voter perception in Odisha.
As tensions mount, all eyes are now on the BJD’s next move and whether the party leadership will address these explosive claims or maintain its current silence.
