Odisha’s Political Shake-Up: Will Dissident BJD Leaders Form a New Party?

Amar Prasad Satpathy Hints at Breakaway

Senior leader and former minister Amar Prasad Satpathy has triggered fresh political chatter by hinting at the formation of a “new BJD.” His remarks come at a time when the Biju Janata Dal (BJD), once Odisha’s most dominant party, is grappling with a widening disconnect from its grassroots base.

Criticism of Party’s Direction

Amar openly criticised the party’s lack of ideology and policy clarity, warning that such drift could push more leaders and workers towards defection. The BJD, under Naveen Patnaik’s leadership, has been facing turbulence ever since its 2024 electoral setback, when the BJP dislodged it from power after more than two decades of uninterrupted rule.

Echoes of Tathagata Satpathy’s Call

Amar’s comments echo similar sentiments voiced earlier by former MP Tathagata Satpathy, who suggested discussions in Delhi with disgruntled leaders about charting a new course. Together, these statements have intensified speculation about a possible split within the BJD.

Signs of Internal Turmoil

The remarks highlight the party’s internal fractures, which became visible during the 2024 elections when several senior leaders were sidelined in favour of newcomers. Amar’s cryptic response on leadership for a “new BJD” has only added fuel to speculation about whether a breakaway faction could emerge.

Analysts Weigh In

Political observers suggest that this is a critical juncture for the BJD. Reduced to opposition benches, the party is struggling to reinvent its role in Odisha’s changing political landscape. While the official leadership has downplayed talk of rebellion, the possibility of a splinter group cannot be ignored.

Odisha’s Shifting Political Landscape

With the BJP consolidating power and the Congress yet to revive its organisational strength, a “new BJD” could potentially reshape Odisha’s political dynamics. Whether Amar and Tathagata’s call translates into a formidable alternative or fizzles out as mere dissent remains to be seen.