BJD MP’s Remarks Spark Controversy
A recent comment by Biju Janata Dal (BJD) MP Debashish Samantaray has ignited a political storm in Odisha. The MP suggested that the regional party could potentially ally with the Congress to form a new government, a remark that has caused ripples across the state’s political landscape. While speaking at a meeting in Kujang, Jagatsinghpur district, Samantaray hinted at the possibility of unseating the current Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) regime, led by Mohan Majhi, with the support of Congress.
A viral video of the meeting shows the MP discussing seven cases filed in the Orissa High Court challenging the election of BJP MLAs. Samantaray urged BJD President Naveen Patnaik to prepare for potential by-elections in these constituencies, suggesting that Patnaik’s presence alone could ensure BJD’s victory. He further speculated that if needed, BJD could align with Congress to secure a majority in the Assembly and form a government.
Political Reactions and Denials
Samantaray’s remarks were met with swift responses from both the Congress and the ruling BJP. Congress leader Mohammed Moquim dismissed the possibility of an alliance, accusing the BJD of frequently shifting political positions, particularly given its past support of BJP bills in Parliament. Moquim also ridiculed Samantaray’s prediction of a successful by-election outcome, emphasizing that the election cases are still under judicial scrutiny.
On the other hand, the BJP was quick to criticize the BJD MP’s comments. BJP vice-president Golak Mohapatra mocked Samantaray, calling his speculation “daydreaming.” Mohapatra argued that the BJP government has made significant progress in the last 100 days—achievements that he claims the previous BJD regime failed to accomplish during its long tenure. BJP leader Biranchi Tripathy further criticized the BJD, accusing the party of being desperate for power and unwilling to accept their loss in the last election.
BJD MP Defends His Stance
Despite the backlash, Samantaray stood by his statement, asserting that it is his personal belief that a BJD-Congress alliance could come to fruition after the by-elections. He pointed to ongoing cases against BJP MLAs, claiming that these cases could lead to by-elections that would strengthen the BJD’s position in the state legislature. Samantaray also emphasized that Naveen Patnaik remains a key figure and vote-catcher for the party.
Uncertainty in Odisha’s Political Future
While the possibility of a BJD-Congress alliance remains speculative, Samantaray’s comments have exposed the underlying tensions in Odisha’s political environment. Both the BJP and Congress have firmly rejected the idea of such a partnership, but the suggestion alone reflects the fluid nature of political dynamics in the state. As by-elections and court rulings loom, the political landscape in Odisha remains uncertain, with the potential for further developments in the coming months.
(With inputs from agencies)
