Waqf Bill vote controversy: Is BJD heading towards a split?

Opposition Biju Janata Dal (BJD) in Odisha finds itself in a turbulent state after an internal conflict emerged over its recent voting decision concerning the Waqf Bill. The unexpected shift in the party's stance has prompted increasing criticism both within and outside the party.  

As per reports, some senior BJD members, joined by representatives from its youth wing, held a significant meeting at a hotel in Patia, Bhubaneswar on Wednesday to discuss the unfolding situation. 

Noteworthy, attendees included senior BJD leaders Shashi Bhusan Behera, Ashok Panda, and Chandra Sarathi Behera.

Earlier deliberations at Naveen Niwas, the residence of BJD supremo Naveen Patnaik, failed to address key issues, now under scrutiny. Now, the recent development has sparked widespread speculation across political circles about the implications and potential outcomes of these discussions. It further hints at a major shake-up being on the horizon for the party. 

Is BJD Heading Towards Split?

However, the precise objectives and resolutions of these meetings remain undisclosed, adding to the intrigue. Now with two different groups within BJD either supporting or opposing VK Pandian, questions are being raised whether BJD is already divided or heading towards a split. 

Meanwhile, BJD chief Naveen Patnaik's reaction to the voting decision concerning the Waqf Bill is still awaited. Speculation is rife that internal conflict within the party has intensified and all is not well within the party. Moreover, the mysterious silence by Naveen over the matter has worsened the situation further.

"Some leaders with the same political inclinations discussed some issues in the meeting. Naveen is the one and only uncontroversial leader and we are with him. We will not bother if any force from outside tries to weaken him," said Shashi Bhusan Behera.

"We discussed various issues within the party today and our party president knows about our meeting," said BJD leader Nrusingha Sahu.

Debashish Samantaray's 'X' Post Triggers Controversy

In response to the chaotic situation, party leader Debashish Samantaray, in a tweet, slammed some of the new leaders stating that the newcomers in the party neither understand the legacy of BJD nor uphold the ideals of Biju Patnaik and Naveen Patnaik.

Many who recently joined the BJD and quickly secured positions of power seem unaware of the party’s history and values. They are not familiar with the sacrifices of thousands of workers and senior leaders since the formation of the party, he said.

Must Read: BJD MP Debashish Samantaray criticizes party leaders again, questions their ideals and legacy

He further attributed the defeat of the BJD in the 2024 general elections to 'Odia Asmita'. “We are the people of Jagannath Pradesh. Protecting our Asmita is our main goal," he added.

Debashis's post has triggered further speculations in Odisha's political circle that while one group within the BJD is still showing allegiance to VK Pandian, another group is against the former 5T chairman who has already announced his retirement from politics. 

Atanu Sabyasachi Refutes Division

However, BJD leader Atanu Sabyasachi refuted any chance of division within the party. "Nobody has challenged the leadership of Naveen Patnaik within the BJD. Debashish Samantaray has never put a question mark over Naveen's leadership. All our MLAs and MPs have respect for Naveen and we all are united under him. Naveen Babu always makes the right decisions at the right time. Our party is a disciplined party and we will always obey Naveen's orders," said Sabyasachi.