Despite going through a difficult phase, Biju Janata Dal (BJD) president and former Odisha Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik has said that the party’s future is safe and strong. He said the BJD will continue to work for the people of Odisha for the next 100 years.
Speaking at the party’s 29th Foundation Day programme at Sankha Bhawan in Bhubaneswar, Naveen Patnaik responded to those who are saying that the BJD is becoming weak or may collapse.
Patnaik said that winning and losing elections is normal in a democracy. However, he warned against spreading false information about the party’s future. He clearly said that the BJD is not built around one or two leaders, but is a people’s party connected deeply with Odia pride, hopes and identity.
He added that the BJD will always stand with the people of Odisha and remain their voice in politics.
Sources close to the party leadership said that Patnaik’s statement was meant not only for opposition parties but also for some leaders within the BJD who have raised questions about leadership because of his age and health.
This statement comes at a time when the BJD has seen some leaders and grassroots workers leave the party and join the BJP, leading to allegations of “Operation Lotus” in Odisha.
Although Naveen Patnaik, who is now 79 years old, has not spoken publicly about who will succeed him, party insiders say he has a clear plan and will announce it at the right time. Patnaik himself said that patience is very important in politics.
On internal party issues, including differences over the entry of former IAS officer Sujata Karthikeyan, wife of former aide VK Pandian, Patnaik chose not to comment.
During his speech, Patnaik spoke about the role of youth in the party and called them BJD’s biggest strength. He asked young party workers to be active on social media and fight false news. He also said he has full faith in the honesty and hard work of party workers.
Looking back at BJD’s 24 years in power from 2000 to 2024, Patnaik called it a “golden period” for Odisha’s development. He also criticised the current BJP government, questioning its claim of development under the “double-engine” system.
He said that farmers are struggling to get fertilisers and fair prices for their crops. Self-help group members are facing financial problems, and many young people are worried about their future. According to him, the reality on the ground is different from what the government claims.
In the end, Naveen Patnaik said that the BJD will turn today’s problems into opportunities and continue working towards building a strong and empowered Odisha
