Rift in BJD widens as four MPs come forward in support of VK Pandian

Amid escalating tensions within the Biju Janata Dal (BJD), chants against VK Pandian have been resonating from both inside and outside Naveen Niwas. In a twist, four MPs of the party publicly voiced their support for Pandian on Monday.

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MPs vocal in support of Pandian are:

The MPs, Niranjan Bishi, Manas Mangaraj, Sulata Deo, and Subhashish Khuntia, responded to accusations by Debashish Samantaray of internal divisions, affirming factions are present both supportive and critical of Pandian.

Further complicating matters, BJD MP Munna Khan has returned from Delhi and lodged a complaint with the party supremo Naveen Patnaik against MP Sasmit Patra, accusing him of backing a contentious bill in the Rajya Sabha against the party's stance.

Allegations suggest Pandian's influence was instrumental in Patra’s unexpected support.

The BJD appears divided, with party workers at Naveen Niwas calling for Pandian’s removal amid cries of “Go back Pandian” and “Save BJD”. Against this backdrop, the MPs like Manas Mangaraj and Niranjan Bishi have rallied to Pandian's defense, suggesting Samantaray’s allegations are personal attacks.

As this unfolds, Munna Khan, arrived in Bhubaneswar, pursued a meeting with Patnaik to press for action against Sasmit Patra. Khan expressed considerable discontent upon arrival, indicating a broad range of community interests.

Naveen Patnaik having listened to the grievances of both the ‘factions’ promised a probe and appropriate measures. Sasmit Patra, currently overseas, has yet to address the claims. Observers are now keenly awaiting Patnaik's next move.

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“The kind of battle that is being witnessed in BJD these days proves the party has already been divided into two parts. Its leaders have started being vocal as either pro-Pandian or anti-Pandian. This is gradually dragging the party to an explosive situation. It seems that BJD is not now in the control of Naveen Patnaik,” political analyst Prasanna Mohanty said.