TV
The internal discord within the Biju Janata Dal (BJD) has intensified following the controversial support of party MP Sasmit Patra for the Waqf Bill in Parliament. Senior BJD MLA Ganeswar Behera has now publicly criticized Patra, holding him solely responsible for the turmoil that has gripped the party over the past few days.
Ganeshwar Behera, visibly agitated, stated that Sasmit Patra acted unilaterally and went against the collective interest of the party.
'...Unfortunate and Damaging for the BJD'
“What happened in the Parliament was unfortunate and damaging for the BJD. Sasmit must take full responsibility for this. Without proper authorization, he supported a sensitive bill that contradicts our party’s stand. He must apologize,” Behera told reporters.
According to Behera, Sasmit Patra, during the discussion on the Bill, said that they would oppose and vote against it; but within 48 hours, everything changed.
“I think it was his (Sasmit Patra) own decision, not the decision of the party. This amounts to gross indiscipline as it has put the BJD in trouble. He (Sasmit Patra) is answerable and accountable. The leaders, who are demanding action, are right in their stand. What right does Sasmit Patra have to revolt against the party? Sasmit Patra is responsible for whatever happened in Parliament. He should admit his mistake and apologise,” Behera said.
'What Changed His Decision Within 48 Hours?'
Behera further pointed out the contradictions in Sasmit’s statements. “Just days before the vote, Sasmit himself claimed that the BJD would oppose the Waqf Bill. Then how, within 48 hours, did his ‘conscience’ change so drastically? This raises serious questions. We suspect that the decision to support the bill was entirely his own, not the party’s,” he added.
The controversy has clearly created an embarrassing situation for the BJD in Odisha. Several senior leaders are reportedly demanding strict disciplinary action against Sasmit Patra. Behera supported this stance, saying, “The demand for action is valid and necessary to uphold party discipline.”
Efforts to contact Sasmit Patra for his comments on the issue have so far been unsuccessful.
As the debate over the Waqf Bill continues to stir political waters, the rift within the BJD is likely to widen unless the leadership takes swift action. All eyes are now on Naveen Patnaik’s next move, as the party grapples with questions of internal dissent and ideological clarity.
