BJD hanging by a thread? Shreemayee flags massive rift, alleges push for Sujata Karthikeyan’s entry

Fresh signs of internal unease have surfaced within the Biju Janata Dal (BJD) amid speculation over a possible political entry of Sujata R Karthikeyan, wife of V K Pandian. The matter came to light after suspended party leader Shreemayee Mishra openly questioned what she described as organised efforts to facilitate such a move.

In the latest social post, Shreemayee Mishra wrote a sharp, worded yet cryptic poem, indirectly targeting attempts within the party to build momentum around Sujata Karthikeyan’s induction.

While she did not name any individual, the post was widely read as a response to recent social media remarks by BJD leader SnehanginiChhuria, who had spoken about meetings and organisational outreach in connection with Sujata.

Shreemayee Hints At Lobbying, Succession Anxiety

In her post, Mishra referred to “sponsored programmes,” loyalty displays and behind-the-scenes mobilisation aimed at persuading the party leadership. Using metaphors, she questioned why, despite repeated restraint from the party supremo, ambitions within a “powerful couple” continued to surface.

The poem also carried references to gatherings, women leaders being mobilised, and visits being planned, all framed as actions that could eventually weaken the party. The timing of the post, days ahead of the BJD’s foundation day, has added to its political significance.

Senior journalist Akshaya Sahoo said that an analysis of these developments hints that the BJD is nearing a split and is hanging by a thread. 

“It seems there are two opposing factions within the BJD. One is pro-Pandian and is willing for Sujata’s entry, while the other is ready to revolt if the party supremo were to take such a step,” he said.

Indirect Attack, No Names Taken

Though Mishra avoided naming SnehanginiChhuria, her remarks were widely interpreted as a rebuttal to Chhuria’s earlier social media activity, which had triggered discussion around Sujata Karthikeyan’s possible entry into active politics.

The issue has gained traction amid ongoing debate within the BJD over leadership continuity and succession.

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Chhuria Denies Lobbying Claims

Responding to the controversy, SnehanginiChhuria rejected allegations of lobbying for Sujata Karthikeyan. She clarified that the meeting she had referred to was held at Shankha Bhavan, the BJD’s party office, and not at Naveen Niwas, the residence of party president Naveen Patnaik.

Chhuria maintained that there was no coordinated effort to promote Sujata’s entry and dismissed suggestions of any organised campaign around the issue.

Party Silent As Speculation Continues

The BJD leadership has so far refrained from issuing any official statement on the social media exchanges or on speculation surrounding Sujata Karthikeyan’s political future. There has also been no formal announcement regarding any induction or role linked to her.

As of now, the developments remain confined to internal debate and public posts by party leaders, with no declared organisational decision placed on record.