Who will succeed Naveen Patnaik? All eyes on December 26 as BJD succession debate heats up

Senior BJD leader Debi Prasad Mishra commented on speculation surrounding the party’s next successor, stating on Sunday that any official decision will only be known when the party president and BJD supremo Naveen Patnaik formally announces it.

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BJD's Mishra emphasised that until such a structured decision or directive is issued by the party supremo, there is no need to react to ongoing ‘discussions or rumours’.

Currently, speculation is rife that the announcement could come on December 26, during the BJD’s Foundation Day celebrations, with party supremo Naveen Patnaik making the formal declaration. Among the names being discussed, Sujata R. Karthikeyan, former IAS officer and spouse of V.K. Pandian, is a potential contender.

“You (the media) have been speculating that. When he (Naveen) makes an announcement, if at all it is to be made, then you will automatically come to know about it. You know the things faster than us. You can better say, and I am not an astrologer,” Debi Mishra said.

“If such an official announcement is made, and if the party President issues a directive in this regard, the name will come out and everybody will know this. What can I say on any speculation ahead of that?” the senior BJD leader questioned.

It is being speculated that on December 26, the BJD Foundation Day, Naveen Patnaik may announce his successor. He may hand over the responsibility of the party to Sujata. From leaders and workers to senior members, many questions are being raised regarding the selection of the successor.

Since the Pandian couple has been closely associated with Naveen Patnaik like a shadow, the discussion has intensified even more. In the 2024 elections, leaders revolted, citing Pandian as the reason for the party’s setback. This is why speculation around Sujata’s entry had grown.

However, in the recent Nuapada by-election, even though Pandian did not come forward and Naveen entrusted the responsibility to other senior leaders, the party still ended up in third place. Because of this, even the rebel leaders have become silent now. In this transitional phase, there is talk that Sujata may steer the party.

Previously, BJD spokesperson Lenin Mohanty had also remarked that whatever decision Naveen Patnaik takes will be in the best interest of the party and the State.