Senior Biju Janata Dal (BJD) leader and Member of Parliament Debashish Samantaray launched a veiled yet sharp criticism against former IAS officer and current political figure V.K. Pandian, citing internal unrest within the party over the Waqf Amendment Bill voting in the Rajya Sabha.
Party Legacy Ignored by New Entrants, Says Samantaray
In a strongly worded Facebook post, Samantaray emphasized that some of the newer faces in BJD “do not understand the legacy of Biju Patnaik or the secular values upheld by Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik.” Without directly naming Pandian, he wrote, “Some leaders acting at someone’s behest neither belong to Odisha nor to the BJD’s core ideology.”
‘Odia Asmita’ and the 2024 Poll Setback
Reflecting on BJD’s 2024 electoral performance, Samantaray hinted at identity politics as a critical factor in the party’s challenges, indirectly targeting Pandian’s growing influence. “We are from the land of Lord Jagannath. Safeguarding Odia identity should remain our top priority,” he stated.
Waqf Amendment Vote Sparks Internal Discord
Samantaray, who abstained from voting on the Waqf Bill, criticized the party’s leadership for not issuing a whip despite an earlier stance against the legislation. He accused Pandian of orchestrating a strategic U-turn, calling it a “conspiracy” that led to confusion and internal divide.
Pushback from Party Leaders and Rising Tensions
Following his remarks, four Rajya Sabha MPs from the BJD defended Pandian and rebuked Samantaray’s allegations. Additionally, seven young BJD leaders reportedly wrote to senior figure Debi Mishra, expressing dismay over the vote and urging disciplinary action against those straying from party principles.
Naveen Patnaik Calls for Restraint Amid Speculation
As tensions mount within the party, Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik held discussions with senior leaders, advising all factions to maintain discipline and unity. There is rising speculation about possible disciplinary steps against Rajya Sabha floor leader Sasmit Patra, who was absent during the crucial vote due to an overseas visit.
