Internal churn in Bolangir BJD amid talks on Kalikesh Singh Deo’s leadership role

The internal debate within the Biju Janata Dal (BJD) over the future leadership role of Kalikesh Narayan Singh Deo has further intensified, with contrasting views emerging from party leaders in and around Bolangir district in Odisha. 

While some senior leaders have reiterated their support for Kalikesh, opposition from within the district unit has now come out more openly.

Opposition Emerges From Within Bolangir

However, opposition to Kalikesh’s leadership has surfaced from within Bolangir district. Former Kantabanji MLA Ayub Khan strongly disagreed with the idea, asserting that Naveen Patnaik continues to be the undisputed leader of the BJD.

“People are hopeful and dreaming; they are not denied to dream. Naveen Patnaik is still the leader of BJD and he is still the leader of 4.50 crore Odias and will remain in the future as well,” Ayub Khan said.

Responding to Dibya Shankar Mishra’s statement, Ayub Khan added that the comments were made in a different context. “He was present there at the football tournament as the chief guest and for that reason they spoke in his favour. I do not see Kalikesh fit for the leadership role because when he could not win five seats from Bolangir, then how will he win 146 seats?” he said.

District Unit Reacts

Bolangir district BJD president Saroj Meher has also reacted to the ongoing discussion, reflecting the growing unease within the district unit over the leadership debate.

Support From Senior Leaders Outside District

The issue gained momentum after former minister Dibya Shankar Mishra publicly spoke in favour of Kalikesh Narayan Singh Deo assuming a larger leadership role in the party. Soon after, former MLA Debesh Acharya echoed similar views, indirectly suggesting that Kalikesh should be entrusted with greater responsibility.

Also Read: After Dibya Shankar, Debesh Acharya backs Kalikesh Singh Deo as leadership debate continues within BJD

Acharya highlighted Kalikesh’s experience in multiple fields, including sports and politics, and said there was growing public expectation for him to take on a bigger role. Although he did not explicitly name the BJD in his remarks, they were widely interpreted as being linked to the party’s future leadership direction.