Speculation rife over BJD’s BMC corporator's potential political shift to BJP

Rumours are circulating about whether senior Biju Janata Dal (BJD) corporator Amaresh Jena, also known as Baiyan, is considering a switch to the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP). This speculation follows recent events in Bhubaneswar, during the statue unveiling of renowned orator Bishwanath Kar.

At the event, Chief Minister Mohan Majhi and Union Minister Dharmendra Pradhan, along with several other state ministers, were present. What drew the attention of many was the presence of the Corporator of Ward no 45. He was observed interacting in their company, which sparked discussions about his future political move. 

During the event, Union Minister Dharmendra Pradhan called Jena to his vehicle and enquired about his well-being, prompting a flurry of speculation. Subsequently, BJP MLA Babu Singh extended a public welcome to Jena, stating, "We invite him to all our events. He faces no obstacles in joining us.” 

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“Baiyan is like a brother to us. The Chief Minister and Union Minister will call him. There is no wrong in calling a brother. In calling him, neither we nor he is facing any problems. Look, BJP is the largest party in the world and its gate is always open to all,” said Singh.  

In response to these developments, Jena remarked, "There's no issue with BJD regarding this. Do leaders from other parties not meet Naveen Babu or sit with him? I work for Bhubaneswar.”

“I don’t think it is wrong for a BJD leader to sit with BJP leaders or vice versa. For those who want to take Bhubaneswar further, the party hardly holds any importance to them. They work for the people and the party. I can’t say anything about my leaving the party or joining any other party. But I want to say I have good relationships with all. Babu Bhai (Ekamra MLA Babu Singh) was earlier in BJD and now in BJP. There are many Congress and BJP workers who have joined BJD,” he said. 

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“We are working with them whose mindset is matching with ours and those whose mindset is not matching with ours are remaining aloof,” he added. 

Indicating to media persons, he further said, “Whenever I shall have to make any decision to leave the party (BJD), first I will inform you.” 

In this regard, the BJD has not issued any formal response or statement about Amaresh Jena's potential political shift.