Odisha politics plunged into fresh turmoil after Biju Janata Dal (BJD) president and Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik suspended two party MLAs, triggering intense speculation about internal dissent. With no immediate official explanation, rumours of factionalism and rebellion began circulating widely in political circles.

Clarity came when senior BJD spokesperson Lenin Mohanty publicly alleged that the suspensions were linked to a larger conspiracy aimed at breaking the party from within.

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‘Mid-Day Operation’ to Destabilise BJD: Mohanty

Addressing the media, Mohanty drew parallels with past attempts to destabilise the BJD, recalling what he described as earlier “midnight operations” to topple the party. This time, he said, the attempt was a “mid-day operation,” which was swiftly thwarted by Naveen Patnaik.

In a sharp remark, Mohanty added that even if conspirators attempt a “mid-evening operation” in the future, they would meet the same fate. His comments underscored the party leadership’s confidence in controlling internal challenges.

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Names Named, Fingers Pointed

Mohanty directly accused Bijay Mahapatra, Arabinda Mahapatra and Sanatan Mahakud of fomenting unrest within the BJD over the past several months. According to him, these leaders had been actively working to create divisions and weaken the party’s organisational unity.

He specifically alleged that Bijay Mahapatra played a central role in backing efforts to destabilise the BJD from within.

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‘Corruption and Betrayal’ Behind Suspensions

Explaining the rationale behind the disciplinary action, Mohanty stated that the suspended MLAs were found guilty of corruption and betrayal. “It is very simple—corruption and betrayal,” he said, adding that they were working against the interests of the BJD.

Mohanty emphasised that Patnaik did not act in haste. Instead, the party president took time to verify information, assess evidence, and only then decided to suspend the MLAs.

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Why Others Were Spared

Responding to questions on why leaders such as Debasish Samantaray were not punished, Mohanty clarified that action was taken only against those who were caught “red-handed.” He noted that Samantaray had never openly spoken about splitting the party, distinguishing his case from those who faced suspension.

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Cracks in a Party Known for Unity

The episode has exposed underlying tensions within a party that has long prided itself on discipline and unity under Naveen Patnaik’s leadership. Political observers view the suspensions as a clear message to potential rebels, especially with elections on the horizon.

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Silence from Suspended MLAs, More Drama Likely

The two suspended MLAs have so far maintained silence, leaving room for further political developments. In Odisha’s charged political atmosphere, analysts believe the controversy is far from over.

As events unfold, the BJD faces the challenge of managing internal dissent while projecting stability to voters—a task that could shape the party’s political fortunes in the months ahead.