Donations dry up for BJD after electoral loss

Following its defeat in the recent elections, the Biju Janata Dal (BJD) has reportedly received no fresh donations. In contrast, leaders of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) have contributed substantial amounts to their party.

Data filed with the Election Commission by various political parties has revealed these figures. During the 2024-25 fiscal year, the BJD received Rs 60 crore in donations, primarily during the election period. On the other hand, the Chief Minister and other ministers from the BJP contributed Rs 5 lakh each to their party.

The report highlights the contributions received by different parties, showing a stark contrast in post-election fundraising. After losing power, the BJD reportedly did not receive any additional donations, despite having assets exceeding Rs 720 crore.

According to BJD Treasurer Subhash Singh, the party’s income for the 2024-25 fiscal year, excluding election donations, stood at Rs 50 crore. With Rs 60 crore received during the April-May 2024 election period included, the total income for the BJD in 2024-25 exceeds Rs 110 crore. 

"Whenever Naveen Patnaik gives a call, more than 70 per cent of the people of Odisha are ready to help him. Naveen gets help because of his transparency, dedication and bringing Odisha to the national map," said BJD Treasurer Subhash Singh.

Interesting details have emerged from the affidavits filed by the BJP. Ministers from Odisha have reportedly contributed lakhs of rupees to the party. Chief Minister Mohan Majhi donated Rs 5 lakh. Both Deputy Chief Ministers, Kanak Vardhan Singh Deo and Pravati Parida, along with other ministers, have also contributed Rs 5 lakh each.

Meanwhile, Odisha MPs have contributed between Rs 1 lakh and Rs 2 lakh. Union Minister Jual Oram and National Vice-President Baijayant Panda each donated Rs 5 lakh. Aparajita Sarangi contributed Rs 50,000. State legislators have donated amounts ranging from Rs 1 lakh to Rs 2 lakh, while Government Chief Whip Saroj Pradhan contributed Rs 5 lakh. Former BJP MLAs donated Rs 25,000 each.

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Overall, the BJP reportedly received Rs 6,654 crore in donations nationwide within a single year. This information comes from affidavits submitted to the Election Commission following the Supreme Court’s ruling declaring electoral bonds unconstitutional, prompting political parties to disclose their annual contributions.

"BJP is a cadre-based party. We don't take donations from people. Ministers, MPs, MLAs and party workers have been asked to give donations so that the party will be strengthened and run smoothly," said BJP MLA Saroj Padhi.