Rajya Sabha nomination: ‘Bhakta-Naveen alliance’ will lead to downfall, claims Prasanna Patasani

Senior BJP leader Prasanna Kumar Patasani launched a sharp attack on the Thursday during Rajya Sabha nomination process, triggering a fresh political debate in Odisha.Biju Janata Dal (BJD) on 

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Speaking to the media, Patasani alleged that what he termed the “Bhakta-Naveen alliance” would ultimately lead to political decline. Taking a direct swipe at the former Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik, the BJP leader claimed that Patnaik’s political downfall has already begun and may worsen in the coming days. “You will remember this after the results are declared,” he remarked, hinting at potential electoral consequences.

Patasani also made a striking comment regarding industrialist-turned-politician Dilip Ray, asserting that Ray is already in a winning position. “Don’t ask how he will win,” Patasani said cryptically, adding that politics is another name for ‘conspiracy’.

The remarks come at a crucial time as political parties intensify strategies around Rajya Sabha nominations. While the BJD has not officially responded to Patasani’s allegations, his comments are expected to escalate tensions between the BJP and the regional party.

Political observers believe such statements indicate rising friction and possible behind-the-scenes manoeuvring ahead of key electoral outcomes. With Rajya Sabha calculations often involving strategic alignments, Patasani’s “conspiracy” remark has added a dramatic edge to the ongoing political developments in the State.

“Dilip Ray is winning. And this time, the BJP has fielded the right candidates—all those who are standing for election. As for the rest... what do they (Congress and BJD party men) keep saying? That Bhakta and Naveen Babu are one. That will be the cause of his downfall. Whatever has started for Naveen Babu will only get worse. Does this ever happen? Just wait and see, tell me once the results are out. This is how things are done. You will see once the results are out; why should I say anything now?” Patasani said.

“Another name for politics is ‘conspiracy’. The one who can conspire well rises in politics. So, who can conspire better than him? Who is a better conspirator than Naveen Babu? But he won't be successful anymore. It's over; he has had his run. How many times did he say he would send me to the Rajya Sabha? Did he ever actually send?” Patasani stated.

“From what I see, after Pandian's reign, no one else will be able to rule (Odisha). This is their end. The people have defeated them this time (in the 2024 General Elections). To win in the future, you need the skill of winning along with the right strategy. Naveen and Pandian have now proven to be big liars in that regard. They say one thing and do another. They are suffering for what they did. The people didn't vote for them. And as much of a liar as Naveen Babu has been proven to be, Pandian is an even bigger liar,” Patasani added.