TV
Recent developments strongly suggest that Biju Janata Dal (BJD) may be losing its hold on local governance, as representatives shift allegiance to BJP. The BJD claims this is the result of orchestrated attempts by the ruling party to break the former’s strength.
Meanwhile, the saffron camp asserted that BJD leaders are joining their party to be a part of the development process, suggesting a loss of confidence in the Opposition party.
Also Read: Dhenkanal Sadar block’s BJD chairperson loses confidence vote
Odisha witnessed a regime change after 24 years, and with panchayat elections around five months away, numerous BJD panchayat representatives are defecting to the BJP. Following this trend, the Opposition party members, including sarpanchs and samiti members, are gradually aligning with the ruling BJP.
“They (BJP camp) are running the government, but why are they doing this to take our sarpanchs, chairmans, MLAs, and MPs? BJD possesses Zilla Parishad chairman seats in 30 districts. Hence, we have nothing to worry about. However, they should not worry so much and work for the people instead,” senior BJD leader Munna Khan stated.
A no-confidence vote in Dhenkanal Sadar block chairperson resulted in BJD’s loss, a scenario previously reflected in Nilgiri and Khallikote blocks. Many BJD leaders allege that the BJP is employing no-confidence votes as a primary strategy to dismantle their ranks.
“They (BJP leaders) are hatching conspiracies to bring no-confidence motions against block chairpersons. Attempts are being made to divide the party (BJD),” Opposition chief whip Pramila Mallick said.
According to BJD insiders, the party's infighting is majorly contributing to its instability. There's a growing discontentment among leaders from the State Capital to remote areas, with open upheavals being noticeable.
Must Read: BJD infighting: Female councillor alleges misbehaviour by party's male councillor
Statements from senior leaders indicate that the party's cohesion is lacking. The challenge now extends to reconciling internal factions while keeping panchayat and municipal representatives from defecting BJD.
Panchayat elections are to be held after a gap of approximately two and a half years, and municipal elections thereafter. BJD faces the daunting challenge of defection. Grassroots leaders leaving BJD are becoming a significant source of strength for the BJP, putting additional pressure on BJD to formulate strategies to halt the trend.
“The coming panchayat and municipal elections will be an acid test for BJD. If the party fails in that test, then it would give rise to a possibility of the party breaking down or becoming weak,” political analyst Sandeep Mishra opined.
