Former BJD MP Amar Patnaik likely to join BJP, fresh blow to conch party after Jay Dholakia’s switch

In a significant political development that could deepen the ongoing churn within Odisha’s major opposition, Biju Janata Dal (BJD), former Rajya Sabha MP Amar Patnaik is reportedly set to join the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) on Monday.

According to sources, Patnaik, once a prominent BJD face known for his policy-driven politics and expertise in governance and finance, may formally embrace the BJP during a merger event at the party’s state headquarters in Bhubaneswar.

The ceremony is expected to take place in the presence of BJP state president Manmohan Samal and central in-charge Sunil Bansal, signalling the saffron party’s continuing expansion drive in Odisha.

In response to these speculations, Samal replied that his party’s doors “are always open,” making the possibility of the buzz being true even stronger.

"News will be out in due time. The BJD has ruled Odisha for several years, they will definitely accuse the BJP of something or the other. Regarding their party members, those who are not satisfied with the leadership and the party's workings may choose a different path. Our (BJP's) door is always open,” said Manmohan Samal.

Growing Ripple Within BJD

Sources report that Amar Patnaik’s move marks not just another defection but a symbolic shift reflecting unease within the BJD’s senior ranks. He is among several leaders reportedly disenchanted with the current leadership structure and internal decision-making.

The development comes amid visible discontent in western Odisha, particularly in Nuapada district, where BJD’s influence has waned following a series of high-profile exits, including the unprecedented Jay Dholakia’s entry into the BJP.

Meanwhile, sources also indicated that a few local BJD leaders from Nuapada might accompany Amar Patnaik in joining the BJP, further consolidating the saffron party’s presence in the region ahead of the upcoming by-election.

Amar Patnaik’s induction, if confirmed, will be viewed as a continuation of the exodus trend that began after the general elections, with senior and grassroots leaders increasingly shifting allegiance to the BJP.

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BJD Grapples With Internal Rifts

These back-to-back exits come at a time when the BJD is already grappling with speculation over succession and internal rifts. The recent buzz surrounding Sujata R. Karthikeyan, wife of former bureaucrat and 5T chairman V. K. Pandian, and her possible induction into the BJD with a Rajya Sabha berth, has intensified talk of factional divides within the party.

Further, party supremo Naveen Patnaik’s continued silence on leadership and organisational matters has left space for competing power centres to emerge, further fuelling the perception of drift within the BJD.