Naveen Patnaik’s successor debate reignites after Shreemayee Mishra's post

Amid heightened buzz in Odisha’s political circles, former BJD leader Shreemayee Mishra has triggered fresh debate on social media over the question that has dominated state politics for months — who will succeed BJD supremo Naveen Patnaik.

Her post, made on Sunday, has once again put the spotlight on the party’s possible leadership transition ahead of its Foundation Day.

Shreemayee shared an old statement of former Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik, captioning it with the cryptic line, “Hopefully it will be proven.” 

The resurfaced clip features Naveen reiterating a position he has held for years: that he has not chosen a successor and that the people of Odisha, along with the BJD, will ultimately decide who takes the mantle. 

“I have not picked a successor. The people will choose a successor. The successor will be from the BJD, and I think the BJD will continue to do very well,” Naveen had earlier said during an interview with a national media outlet.

Her post comes at a time when speculation is intensifying that Naveen Patnaik may announce his successor on December 26, the Foundation Day of the Biju Janata Dal. Political observers believe the event could be historic, as the party completes another year with Naveen at the helm.

Also Read: Shreemayee Mishra, Elina Dash fire fresh salvos at BJD on social media

Among the names being widely discussed, former IAS officer Sujata R. Karthikeyan, wife of senior BJD strategist VK Pandian, has emerged as a prominent contender. Her proximity to the power structure and the couple’s long-standing association with Naveen Patnaik has only deepened the speculation.

With leaders maintaining silence and whispers growing louder, the suspense over the BJD’s next chapter continues to grip Odisha’s political landscape.