Ananga Udaya Singh Deo and Naveen Patnaik reconnect amid strategic talks

A significant political meeting took place on Friday at Naveen Niwas, where a major closed-door discussion was held. Former minister Ananga Udaya Singh Deo arrived at Naveen Niwas, the official residence of BJD president and former CM, Naveen Patnaik, marking a rare visit after a long time since the 2024 General Elections debacle.

Also Read: 'Don't agree what Naveen said': Suspended Arvind Mohapatra questions credibility of BJD charges

The meeting was notable as Naveen Patnaik and Ananga Udaya Singh Deo, known to share a long-standing friendship, came together after a prolonged period.

Sources indicate that following the party’s recent electoral defeat, Ananga Udaya Singh Deo had been occasionally visiting Naveen Niwas, making this interaction politically meaningful. There is strong speculation that discussions may have focused on the upcoming Rajya Sabha elections and future political strategy.

Naveen Patnaik’s political advisor, Santrupt Mishra, was also present during the meeting, adding weight to the deliberations.

Several other senior leaders of the party visited Naveen Niwas earlier today. Political Affairs Committee (PAC) members Pranab Prakash Das, Pratap Jena, Sanjay Kumar Das Burma, and Ananta Narayan Jena were among those who met the party supremo, indicating heightened political activity and internal consultations within the party.

Besides, supporters of the Patkura MLA Arvind Mohapatra in large numbers have started reaching Naveen Niwas and BJD headquarters Sankha Bhawan in Bhubaneswar, following the suspension of Arvind Mohapatra. 

Worth mentioning, earlier yesterday, Arvind Mohapatra issued an open challenge regarding the allegations linked to his suspension, questioning the credibility and consistency of charges previously levelled against him by the Biju Janata Dal (BJD).

Speaking to the media, the Patkura MLA had stated he is facing different accusations at different times, ranging from anti-party activities and irregularities in mid-day meal operations to corruption, betrayal, and alleged efforts to defeat a parliamentary candidate and harass residents of Patkura.