Will take decision with long term view: Former MP Baijayant Panda

Bhubaneswar: Former Kendrapara MP Baijayant Jay Panda today said that he will decide his next course of action with a long term view and not just keeping 2019 or 2024 elections in mind.

"I am consulting people and haven't taken any decision. I will take further decision not only keeping in view 2019 or 2014 elections but for a long term," Panda said.

On being asked about floating a new party, Panda said that he is exploring all alternatives.

Moreover, on queries pertaining to contesting from Mahanga constituency, Panda said that during the overhead water tank inauguration ceremony in the constituency, he was attacked following which he has received the love and affection from Mahanga residents.

He added that he has special feelings for Mahanga.

The former Kendrapara MP had quit BJD on May 28 and subsequently resigned from his Lok Sabha membership on June 12.

The former parliamentarian was in Mahanga today and met a bereaved family who had lost one of its members due to medical negligence.

"Visited this Mahanga family whose 17 yr old daughter/sister died of medical negligence, given the run around w/changing diagnoses, casual treatment & refused admission in (govt) hospital! In the health minister's constituency! Despite local protests, none from govt has visited," tweeted Panda.