BJD launches month-long padayatra across Odisha amid Naveen Patnaik’s absence

The Opposition Biju Janata Dal (BJD) on Thursday launched its month-long Jan Sampark Padayatra across Odisha to engage with citizens and spotlight the failures of the BJP government in the state.

For the first time, the Opposition party’s mass outreach campaign is being held without the physical presence of BJD chief Naveen Patnaik. Senior leaders said that Naveen Babu could not attend in person, but his continued popularity is drawing crowds, with citizens voluntarily joining the foot march.

BJD leaders asserted that the padayatra aims to communicate the party’s vision for Odisha while highlighting alleged lapses in governance under the BJP administration.

“BJD is a people’s party. See how the people have participated. Our leader, Naveen Patnaik, has always told us that our party belongs to the people of Odisha. Though he is not present here, the crowd is a testament to the people’s love for him,” said Ashok Panda, senior BJD leader.

Meanwhile, Panchayati Raj Minister Rabi Naik criticised the Opposition’s move, claiming that the padayatra is political theatrics that tarnish the legacy of Gopabandhu Das.

“Every Odia knows how the BJD was rejected. In our one-and-a-half-year ruling, we have fulfilled what we have said. BJD is going to Gopabandhu Das’ land to tarnish its image,” Naik said.

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The padayatra, which began today, will continue for a month, covering all districts and engaging with people at the grassroots level.