No rift in BJD, says Pramila Mallik after Badri Patra’s remarks on VK Pandian

Senior Biju Janata Dal (BJD) leader Pramila Mallik responded on Tuesday to the controversy surrounding MLA Badri Patra’s remarks allegedly targeting VK Pandian, asserting that there is no infighting within the party. She said there is no discord in the party, and no blame has been fixed on any individual.

Also Read: No Naveen, no vote: Senior BJD leader Badri Patra targets VK Pandian

Pramila Mallik clarified that no provocative statements are being made and that Badri Patra himself has not made any comment against the party leadership. She said discussions are natural after the party’s electoral defeat and should not be misinterpreted as an internal conflict.

MLA Mallik also emphasised that there are no restrictions on meeting BJD President Naveen Patnaik, adding that Badri Patra, being a senior leader, is free to meet the supremo whenever Patra wishes.

The Binjharpur MLA further stated that Badri Patra has never engaged in anti-party activities nor spoken against the party.

Moreover, BJD’s State-level Disciplinary Action Committee member Sarada Jena said that the committee is keeping a close watch on all developments. Differences of opinion can exist within a party, but if anyone makes statements that could harm the party’s interests, the discipline committee will examine the matter, he added.

The clarification comes a day after Badri Patra allegedly targeted VK Pandian without taking his name, triggering political discussion within party circles.

“Badri Bhai hasn’t said anything. Discussions are happening only after the party (BJD) lost (in the 2024 General Elections). The reason is being investigated. We are having discussions among ourselves. Advice is being given only to strengthen the party,” Pramila Mallik said.

“There is no black spot against us anywhere; you (the media) are spreading negativity. Tell the matter as it is to the persons concerned. You are exaggerating a light-hearted discussion. Why are you questioning them? They are not calling you to say, ‘Come, I am angry, I will tell you'. There is no division in our party, no one is arrogant,” BJD’s Mallik added.