New Year 2025: Ruling & opposition parties in Odisha face tough challenges to bolster political standing

The political scene in Odisha experienced a dramatic shift in 2024 as the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) achieved a landmark victory in the General Elections, forming a government independently with a clear majority. This ended the two-and-a-half-decade dominance of the Biju Janata Dal (BJD), which has subsequently lost its representation in the Lok Sabha for the first time. 

Following the change in the equation, all the major political parties- both the ruling and the opposition face tough challenges in 2025 to bolster their political standing.

The BJP’s rise to power was buoyed by assertive promises, some of which have been realised, such as the Rs 800 additional input per one quintal of paddy for farmers and initiatives related to the opening of four doors and Ratna Bhandar of Puri Srimandir. However, commitments such as financial reimbursements for chit fund frauds, increase in some allowances, stopping PC activities and taking stern actions for the corruption activities during the tenure of BJD remain unfulfilled after six months into their tenure. Even, no steps have been taken in this direction.

Must Read: Subhadra Yojana will pave path for Odisha’s progress in 2025: Deputy CM Pravati Parida

The preceding BJD administration was plagued by public dissatisfaction due to allegations of corruption and misconduct, which the BJP vowed to tackle. Yet, actions to fulfill these promises are still awaited. It will be a huge challenge for the party in 2025.

Moreover, Odisha is set to host two major events - Pravasi Bharatiya Divas and the Make in Odisha Conclave in 2025. These events pose significant logistical challenges for the new government, which must demonstrate its capability on these large platforms.

While BJP has consolidated power, it must diligently prepare for the upcoming Panchayat elections, as the Opposition BJD’s influence lingers in local bodies.

“BJP workers are working hard to fulfill all the promises. We have completed only six months and we have already done a lot of work. Provision in the budget has been made for many developmental works. All these works will be executed during our tenure of five years,” said Odisha BJP president Manmohan Samal.

On the other hand, although ousted, BJD remains the principal opposition party, albeit with reduced influence. However, internal friction and allegations against influential figures have strained the party leadership, leading to significant defections to BJP ranks.

The BJD now faces the task of reconsolidating its base and addressing the absence of a cohesive state-level committee, especially after the Lok Sabha setback. Retaining unity among its members will demand concerted efforts from its supremo.

“Earlier we were the ruling party and now we are in the Opposition chair. BJD will continue to serve the people of Odisha and try to have developmental activities in the State as earlier,” said BJD leader Pradip Dishari.

Conversely, Congress, despite a slight electoral improvement, continues to struggle with a leadership void and internal disarray. 

Addressing ingrained issues and strengthening grassroots connections will be crucial for the new Congress leader aspiring to revitalise the grand old party’s standing in the State.

“Congress in the State will have a new leader in the New Year. We will take one or two months time to emerge as the only alternative party in Odisha in 2025 if all our leaders and workers work unitedly,” said senior Congress leader Jayadev Jena.