Bandhu Milan or Battle Lines? BJD Grapples with Infighting Across Odisha Districts

Babi Das Seeks to Reassert Control in Jajpur

Amid growing factionalism within the Biju Janata Dal (BJD), senior leader Pranab Prakash Das, popularly known as Babi Das, is making a concerted effort to regain his foothold in Jajpur district. Recognising that the party’s traditional stronghold is no longer unchallenged, Das organised a ‘Bandhu Milan’ (friends’ meet) at the Sathipur Kalyan Mandap in Korei. The event aimed to reconnect with local leaders and workers, consolidating his influence in the area.

Emotional Appeal Sparks Controversy

During the gathering, Das invoked the memory of his late father, Ashok Das, to strengthen his emotional appeal, saying,

“Jajpur is like Devaki to me, but Korei is my Yashoda Maa.”

While intended to reinforce loyalty among his core supporters, the statement drew criticism from local MLA Akash Das Nayak, who suggested that Korei residents still harboured some bitterness from the past.

Sharadiya Bandhu Milan in Cuttack Fuels Speculation

The factional tension extends beyond Jajpur. The BJD is preparing for the Sharadiya Bandhu Milan in Cuttack on September 26 to celebrate Devi Puja, with invites already circulated. Notably, Rajya Sabha MP Debashish Samantaray has been left out, while Cuttack Mayor Subas Singh, district president Prafulla Samal, and Choudwar MLA Souvik Biswal are prominently included. This exclusion has fueled speculation about deeper rifts within the party.

Public Feuds Signal Growing Internal Strains

From Jajpur to Rayagada and now Cuttack, disputes between party members have become increasingly public. Observers note that BJD’s top leadership now faces the challenge of managing these conflicts and restoring unity. Whether the party can maintain cohesion or whether internal cracks will widen remains to be seen.