Discussion on Pandian who has taken retirement is doing harm to BJD: Padmanabha Behera

In the wake of ongoing internal discord within the Biju Janata Dal (BJD), senior party leader and former minister Padmanabh Behera has strongly voiced his concerns and urged for a swift resolution to the current political developments that have stirred the party post the Waqf Bill voting row.

On Tuesday, Behera stated that the ongoing controversy should be brought to a close at the earliest, warning that any further delay would not bode well for the party. “There should be a quick closure to this chapter. Dragging it further will only harm the party,” he said.

While talking to reporters, Behera clarified that BJD MP Munna Khan had already met with the party president Naveen Patnaik and demanded necessary action. “Our supremo has assured that appropriate steps will be taken after due consideration,” he added.

BJD MPs Divided Over Pandian?

Behera also criticized certain MPs for publicly expressing their support for former bureaucrat V.K. Pandian, who recently took political sannyas (retirement from politics). 

“Four MPs expressing solidarity with Pandian through social media is unfortunate. Continued discussions about a leader who has stepped away from politics is damaging the party’s image,” he remarked.

Calling for discipline within the ranks, Behera emphasized that the leadership should not allow members to speak against each other publicly. “We should avoid internal bickering and work towards unity. A firm stand must be taken by the party president soon,” he urged.

He concluded by reiterating that any further delay in taking decisive action would only deepen the damage. “Let the curtain fall on this matter soon—it is the need of the hour,” he affirmed.

This bold statement from a senior leader adds to the growing chorus within the BJD demanding clarity and closure amid internal turbulence.