Senior BJD Leader Ashok Panda joins Badri Patra, takes veiled swipe at VK Pandian

Joining hands with senior Biju Janata Dal (BJD) leader and Ghasipura legislator Badri Narayan Patra, senior party leader and Bhubaneswar BJD president Ashok Panda launched a veiled attack on VK Pandian over his recent “I Am Down But Not Out” remark.

Speaking to the media, Panda stressed that Naveen Patnaik belongs to the people of Odisha and not to any individual, emphasising that no leader or member is above the party or its rules.

He highlighted the importance of discipline within the organisation, noting that everyone must work within defined boundaries. Drawing an analogy from the Ramayana, Panda said that just as Lakshman drew a Laxmanrekha for Sita during the 14 years of exile to ensure her protection, similar boundaries must exist within the party to maintain order and harmony.

“I cannot say much about the ‘I Am Down But Not Out’ remark, but the person who made it can answer it better,” Panda said. “Naveen Patnaik belongs to 4.5 crore people of Odisha, not to any single individual. Everyone, including PM Modi, wished him good health. He is an established personality at the national level. Discipline is necessary in every aspect.”

Panda further stated that while every member has the right to express themselves, the party’s collective decisions and discipline take precedence. According to him, the BJD moves forward as a united force, and individual remarks should not undermine its integrity or create unrest within its ranks.

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His remarks came a day after Patra alleged that certain individuals entrusted with party responsibilities are overstepping their limits, leading to increasing internal conflict and a widening rift within the BJD.