From Ally to Rebel: Shreemayee Mishra Challenges BJD’s Patnaik-Pandian Duo

Suspension Sparks Social Media Storm

After being suspended for alleged anti-party activities, Odisha political figure Shreemayee Mishra has launched a series of provocative social media posts targeting the Biju Janata Dal (BJD). In her posts, she compared party leaders to Mahabharata’s Dhritarashtra and Duryodhana and referred to a “fraudulent saint” from the web series Aashram, widely interpreted as indirect jabs at BJD supremo Naveen Patnaik and his close aide VK Pandian. The party had previously cautioned her against such posts, and her suspension has reignited discussions of internal discord.

Mishra Calls Suspension “Laughable”

Mishra dismissed her suspension as “laughable”, explaining that she had not renewed her party membership for a year and had not been active in the BJD. She criticized Patnaik for remaining silent when she endured insults from senior members, including being called “Surpanakha.” Describing Patnaik as a father figure, she expressed her disappointment at his response: “It happens in politics.” She also challenged the party to provide her membership details, questioning the leadership’s handling of her case.

BJD Defends Its Position

In response, BJD leaders Snehangini Chhuria and Lelin Mohanty held a press conference, presenting photos and videos showing Mishra’s regular presence at party events. The party branded her as an instigator attempting to divert attention by playing the “victim card”, highlighting the ongoing challenges of maintaining party unity.

Public War of Words

The conflict has escalated into a public war of words, exposing cracks within the BJD and fueling speculation about Mishra’s next political move. Observers are now closely watching how both sides manage this internal dispute and its potential impact on the party ahead of upcoming political challenges.