Odisha’s Leader of Opposition and BJD president Naveen Patnaik has written an open letter to BJP MPs from the state, urging them to oppose the Mines and Minerals (Development and Regulation) Amendment Bill, 2026 and raise their voice in Parliament to protect Odisha’s interests.

In the letter, Patnaik described the passage of the MMDR Amendment Bill in the Lok Sabha on August 13 as a “black day” in Odisha’s history. He alleged that the Bill was passed after less than 10 minutes of discussion and expressed disappointment that BJP MPs from Odisha voted in its favour.

Patnaik claimed that Odisha accounts for nearly 44% of India’s mineral resources and argued that the amendment could cause the state to lose more than ₹12,000 crore in annual revenue, with the cumulative loss potentially exceeding ₹1 lakh crore in the future.

According to Patnaik, the amendment would significantly reduce the state government’s control over Odisha’s mineral resources and mining areas. He termed the move an injustice to the future of Odisha’s youth and said the state has already borne the consequences of mining activities, including pollution, displacement and environmental degradation.

The former Chief Minister also raised concerns over the rights of communities living in mining-affected areas, arguing that Odisha should have a greater say in decisions concerning its mineral wealth.

Appeal to BJP MPs

Patnaik urged the BJP MPs to listen to their conscience and demand the repeal of the amendments made to the MMDR Act. He also asked them to press for restoration of the powers of the Odisha government over the state’s mineral resources.

“History respects only those who raise their voice for their state and its people during times of crisis,” Patnaik said in his letter.

The open letter comes amid a growing political debate in Odisha over the implications of the MMDR amendments and the distribution of powers between the Centre and mineral-rich states.

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Concerns over the structural safety of the busy Sambalpur-Angul corridor have resurfaced after repairs to a cavity that appeared on the Maneswar-Sindurpank flyover on NH-55 were completed on Sunday.

The incident has triggered questions over the quality of construction and the recurring damage reported at several locations along the highway stretch.

Fly Ash Erosion Raises Fresh Concerns

The concerns are not limited to the cavity on the flyover. Questions have also been raised over the use and compaction of fly ash in various projects along the corridor.

Following prolonged rainfall, fly ash has reportedly been washed out from portions of the structures. This has raised fears that continued erosion could create voids beneath the road surface and potentially weaken other sections of the highway.

270 Defective Works Identified

According to official sources, around 270 defective works have been identified along the Sambalpur-Angul stretch and have been marked for rectification.

The work was reportedly executed by AIPL as a sub-contractor under Gayatri Infra. Several potholes have also emerged at multiple locations, with local residents alleging poor-quality construction as a major reason behind the deterioration.

Another agency, Dhingra Brothers (India), has reportedly started repair work at the identified locations.

Questions Over Quality Control

The role of the project consultancy has also come under scrutiny. While the contractor was responsible for execution, the consultancy was reportedly involved in design, supervision and inspection of the project, including verification of the work before bills were cleared.

The emergence of major defects despite multiple levels of supervision has raised questions over the effectiveness of the project’s quality-control mechanism.

BJD Demands Probe Into NH-55 Project

The Opposition BJD has targeted the government over the alleged lapses. BJD district president Rohit Pujari described the fly ash leakage as an example of the alleged failure to properly address the situation despite government meetings on the issue.

Pujari demanded a detailed investigation into the ₹1,200-crore NH-55 project.

He also questioned the silence of the local administration, referring to reports that authorities in Jagatsinghpur had lodged an FIR against the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) over alleged poor-quality highway work.

The latest developments have renewed calls for a comprehensive technical inspection of the Sambalpur-Angul corridor to ensure the safety and durability of the highway.

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Odisha’s political arena is heating up ahead of the Rajya Sabha elections on March 16, with attention focused on BJD MLA Subasini Jena amid speculation about potential cross-voting. The absence of the Basta MLA from the assembly has fueled rumors that she may vote against her party’s line following her husband, former Balasore MP Rabindra Jena’s defection to the BJP.

Three-Line Whip Issued to BJD MLAs

In response to mounting concerns, the Biju Janata Dal (BJD) issued a strict three-line whip late on Wednesday, directing all its MLAs to remain in Bhubaneswar from March 13 to 16. The whip, signed by party chief whip Pramila Mallik, emphasizes party unity and warns of strict compliance.

“The Rajya Sabha election will be held on March 16, Monday, from 9 am to 4 pm in the assembly premises. All BJD MLAs are instructed not to leave Bhubaneswar during March 13 to 16 and stay at headquarters. This is treated as a three-line whip and followed rigorously,” the document states.

Political analysts note that disobeying a party whip in Rajya Sabha elections, conducted via open ballot, does not lead to disqualification but may result in internal disciplinary action. Party agents monitor voting closely, making the whip a psychological tool to maintain discipline.

Rabindra Jena’s Defection Adds Political Pressure

Subasini Jena’s scrutiny is intensified by her husband’s move to the BJP, where he is reportedly tasked with garnering support for independent candidate Dilip Ray in Balasore district. This has raised fears among BJD leaders of possible vote defection or cross-voting by the Basta MLA, adding tension to an already high-stakes election.

Congress Steps Up Vigilance

The opposition Congress party is also on alert. Pradesh Congress Committee (PCC) president Bhakta Charan Das confirmed that a whip has been issued to ensure all Congress MLAs vote together. He accused the BJP of attempting horse-trading while ignoring broader governance issues, warning that any MLA tempted to violate party instructions would face strict disciplinary action.

“So far, no MLA has fallen into horse-trading. Whoever does will face a strong campaign against them,” Das stated.

BJP Strategy Under Scrutiny

The BJP has remained silent on allegations of horse-trading but is placing its hopes on Dilip Ray’s candidacy as a test of the BJD’s grip over northern Odisha. With the Rajya Sabha elections approaching, Bhubaneswar has become the center stage for political maneuvering, testing party loyalties and alliances in a tense electoral battle.

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In a significant development indicating internal strife within the Biju Janata Dal (BJD), party leader and former Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik has suspended two MLAs—Arabinda Mahapatra of Patkura and Sanatan Mahakud of Champua—on charges of anti-party activities. The move comes ahead of crucial Rajya Sabha elections, raising questions about the party’s internal dynamics and handling of dissent.

Provocative Statements Spark Controversy

Patkura MLA Arabinda Mahapatra has publicly criticized the government for inaction against alleged corruption in the previous regime. In viral statements, he said, “Naveen is my leader. Pandian is not a leader. I talk directly to Naveen about whatever I need to discuss with him.” He also attacked party governance, stating, “When the ruling party simply chatters nonsense, what will become of it? … It is five years later, and nobody believes that you are going to do anything.”

These remarks were seen as openly challenging the authority of not just Naveen Patnaik but also his close aide V.K. Pandian, sparking disciplinary action.

Signal to Other Dissenters

Political analysts interpret the suspensions as a strong signal from the BJD leadership to maintain loyalty to both Naveen Patnaik and the Pandian-Babu duo. Observers suggest it may serve as a warning to other vocal critics, such as Kendujhar MLA Badri Narayan Patra and MP Debashish Samantaray, who have continued to challenge the party leadership without facing penalties so far.

Legacy of Bijay Mahapatra Fuels Speculation

Arabinda Mahapatra’s actions are reportedly influenced by his father, veteran leader Bijay Mahapatra, who was suspended by Naveen Patnaik in 2000. Bijay Mahapatra has been actively meeting local leaders, fueling speculation about potential new political alliances and shifts within the party.

BJD Faces Delicate Political Balance

With these suspensions and a previous vacancy, the BJD’s Assembly strength now stands at 48. The party faces a delicate situation: whether the aggressive disciplinary stance will reinforce authority or deepen internal fractures ahead of major elections remains uncertain. Political observers suggest that the coming months will reveal whether loyalty to Naveen Patnaik comes at a very high price or whether new unity within the party can be forged.

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The coastal district of Bhadrak, long regarded as a stronghold of the Biju Janata Dal (BJD), is witnessing growing political churn amid signs of a possible exodus of senior party leaders to the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP). As the BJP continues to strengthen its footprint across Odisha, questions are being raised over whether Bhadrak may be the next bastion to slip from the BJD’s grip.

Trigger: Prafulla Samal’s Sons Join BJP

The recent political stir in Bhadrak was triggered by the entry of the two sons of veteran BJD leader Prafulla Samal into the BJP. The development has sent ripples through the district’s political circles, signalling a potential shift in loyalties among influential leaders who have traditionally aligned with the BJD.

Spotlight on Key BJD Leaders

Attention has now turned to three prominent BJD figures — district party president Jagannath Swain, former Dhamnagar MLA Muktikanta Mandal, and former Bhadrak MP Manjulata Mandal. According to political sources, all three are allegedly considering joining the BJP, possibly in the coming year.

Sources further claim that the leaders have already held discussions with BJP state president Manmohan Samal, expressing their interest in switching sides.

Muktikanta Mandal’s Growing BJP Link

Among the three, former MLA Muktikanta Mandal has drawn particular attention after a photograph showing his proximity to BJP leaders went viral on social media. The image has fuelled speculation about his increasing association with the saffron party.

Mandal is known to have close contacts with senior BJP leaders in New Delhi, including Union Minister Dharmendra Pradhan. He has also been actively raising Bhadrak-related issues at the national level, further strengthening perceptions of his alignment with the BJP.

“Decision Will Be Clear at the Right Time”

When questioned about the speculation, Muktikanta Mandal maintained an ambiguous stance.
“All will become clear when the time is right. I will make my decision known to the media at the appropriate time,” he said.

His statement has only added to the suspense surrounding a possible political realignment.

Possible Impact on Bhadrak Politics

If the anticipated defections materialise, they could significantly alter the political equation in Bhadrak and pose a serious challenge to the BJD’s dominance in the district. Such a shift would also reflect the broader realignment of political forces in Odisha, where the BJP has been steadily expanding its influence.

As the new year approaches, political observers remain watchful, anticipating moves by these leaders that could prove to be game-changers in Bhadrak’s political future.

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Nuapada Verdict Sends Shockwaves Through BJD

The Biju Janata Dal (BJD), once the undisputed political force in Odisha, is grappling with a deep crisis following its humiliating third-place finish in the Nuapada Assembly bypoll. The defeat, in which the Bharatiya Janata Party’s Jay Dholakia emerged victorious while Congress edged past BJD candidate Snehangini Chhuria, has jolted the party’s leadership and cadre alike.

The setback has come as a major wake-up call for the party that ruled Odisha uninterrupted for over two decades.

High-Level Review at Naveen Niwas

In the aftermath of the loss, the BJD’s top leadership convened an emergency meeting at Naveen Niwas, the residence of party supremo and former Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik. Senior leaders reportedly engaged in intense discussions, candidly dissecting the reasons behind the electoral debacle and expressing concern over the party’s slipping grip on the electorate.

The meeting underscored growing unease about the party’s organisational health and electoral strategy.

Organisational Weaknesses Under Spotlight

Despite Naveen Patnaik’s active campaigning—undertaken amid health concerns—party insiders admitted that his personal appeal was no longer sufficient to offset deeper structural issues. Leaders flagged a weak second-rung leadership, lack of effective grassroots mobilisation, and disconnect with local workers as critical factors behind the defeat.

Morale within the party has also taken a hit due to defections, with some prominent figures, including former BJD candidate Jay Dholakia, crossing over to the BJP ahead of the bypoll.

Allegations of Poll Irregularities

Adding to the turmoil, the BJD has alleged irregularities in the voting process during the Nuapada bypoll. The party has decided to approach the Election Commission of India, seeking a thorough investigation into the conduct of the election.

While the outcome remains unchanged, the move reflects the party’s attempt to address concerns raised by workers and supporters on the ground.

Changing Political Landscape in Odisha

Political analysts view the Nuapada result as symptomatic of a broader shift in Odisha’s political landscape. They argue that the BJD’s long-standing incumbency advantage and reliance on Naveen Patnaik’s charisma are no longer yielding electoral dividends, especially as the party adjusts to its role in opposition.

The erosion of its traditional vote base has raised questions about the BJD’s ability to reinvent itself in a rapidly evolving political environment.

Calls for Rebranding and Renewal

Senior leaders within the party have privately acknowledged the need for a comprehensive rebranding exercise to remain relevant. Suggestions include organisational restructuring, leadership renewal, and stronger engagement at the grassroots level.

As Odisha’s politics undergoes a visible churn, all eyes are now on Naveen Patnaik to steer the BJD through this period of uncertainty and redefine its future trajectory.

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Salebhata Villagers Recall Late Leader Dholkia’s Legacy

In Salebhata village under Nuapada NAC, a group of elderly men sat outside Amar Sahu’s veranda, watching a Biju Janata Dal (BJD) rally march past—its workers chanting, “BJD Zindabad, vote for the Conch symbol!”

“Dholkia was a different person. No one in our area can match him in social work,” said Amar, now in his eighties. “All the votes from my family went to him in the last election. But this time, we are not sure whom to vote for.”

A woman nearby echoed the sentiment. “He was like a god to us—always standing by the poor and the helpless. ‘Niputri ra putra, Nirdhani ra dhan, Nirbali ra bal’—that’s what we called him,” she said, reflecting on the late leader’s deep connection with the people.

The confusion among the elderly voters, they explained, stems from the absence of a strong, trusted candidate this time. “Dholkia truly stood by the poor—he helped people get into welfare schemes, spent lakhs on community marriages, and even arranged medical treatment and eye operations,” they recalled.

Support Divided Between Jay Dholkia and Other Contenders

An elderly villager, speaking softly, said, “Say what you will, but Jay will do better than the rest.”

Similar mixed opinions resonate in nearby Sunabeda village. A local BJP worker admitted that BJP never did well in Sunabeda and Soseng areas—the voters there always supported BJD. Tuna Chhatria of Sunabeda panchayat added, “Yes, we supported BJD—but only because of Raju Dholkia. We haven’t decided this time.”

In the 2024 Assembly election, Raju Dholkia had secured over 60,000 votes. Whether his son Jay can retain that support remains the big question. “Not all, but at least 30,000 will stay with him,” said a BJP supporter confidently. “And with BJP’s core vote bank added, his winning chances are higher than others.”

Congress Eyes Tribal-Dalit Consolidation

Both Congress and BJD, however, express equal optimism. The Congress claims a consolidation of tribal and Dalit votes, while the BJD banks on Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik’s enduring popularity.

Congress President Bhakta Charan Das said the party enjoys a “pocket share” of nearly 30,000 Dalit votes. “BJD fielded a Dalit candidate only to eat into our base—it’s clearly a ploy to help BJP win,” he alleged. “People are watching such tactics closely, and Congress is sure to gain. Moreover, I have been physically present here since the beginning, so the votes I usually got in MP elections will now go to Ghasiram Majhi,” he added.

Das also stressed that Ghasiram’s tribal identity would play a crucial role. “In the 2024 Assembly election, Ghasiram secured 50,000 votes as an Independent because the tribals stood united behind him. Now, even though some tribal leaders have joined other parties, none of them are influential enough to pull away that support,” he said.

BJD Candidate Counters ‘Outsider’ Tag

Meanwhile, BJD candidate Snehangini Chhuria is putting up a spirited fight, impressing voters with her eloquence and accessible approach. Countering claims that she is an outsider, she tells voters during her campaign, “I will stay here among you to serve you.”

BJD workers also sound confident. “It’s going to be a triangular fight. We shouldn’t underestimate BJD—the massive turnout at Naveen Babu’s meeting shows his popularity,” said a party functionary.

Jay Dholkia’s Emotional Appeal and BJP’s ‘Triple Engine’ Pitch

Jay Dholkia, the BJP candidate and son of late Raju Dholkia, is trying to quell doubts over his defection from BJD. “When my father was hospitalized, neither Naveen nor anyone from BJD came to see him. He stayed loyal to BJD till his end, but they didn’t even ask about his health. That hurt me deeply, and that’s when I decided to quit,” Jay told voters at one of his rallies.

BJP leaders, meanwhile, are banking on what they call a “triple engine” advantage—referring to the party’s presence at the Centre, its growing strength in the State, and a potential win in Nuapada. The party has also intensified its outreach through caste-based mobilization, with local leaders openly discussing their community’s vote share.

A Crucial Battle That Could Redefine Local Politics

With all three major parties—BJP, BJD, and Congress—staking strong claims, the Nuapada bypoll is shaping up to be a high-stakes triangular battle. Beyond just the numbers, this election will test emotional loyalties, local leadership strength, and caste arithmetic.

As campaigning reaches its final phase, one thing is clear—the outcome of the Nuapada bypoll will not only determine the fate of three candidates but could also reshape the region’s political equations long after the votes are counted.

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Ex-Rajya Sabha MP Amar Patnaik Switches Sides

In a major political development ahead of the Nuapada Assembly bypoll, former Rajya Sabha MP and ex-BJD IT cell head Amar Patnaik has joined the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP). His entry marks the saffron party’s third high-profile induction from Odisha within weeks, further intensifying the political churn in the state’s ruling Biju Janata Dal (BJD).

Patnaik, a former Principal Accountant General, joined the BJP on November 3 at the party’s state headquarters in Bhubaneswar. The joining ceremony was attended by Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi, BJP state president Manmohan Samal, and party in-charge Vijay Pal Singh Tomar.

From Bureaucrat to Politician

After retiring from the civil service, Amar Patnaik entered politics in 2018 and quickly rose through the ranks of the Biju Janata Dal. He was elected to the Rajya Sabha in 2023 for a term until 2024 and was regarded as one of BJD’s most articulate voices on economic policy, governance, and technology-driven reforms.

Announcing his decision to join the BJP, Patnaik said, “After serving Odisha, I also want to contribute to the development of the nation at large on a national platform. Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision has deeply inspired me.”

A Pattern of Defections

Patnaik’s defection continues a growing pattern that has seen several BJD leaders switching allegiance to the BJP in recent months. Similar moves were earlier made by Mamata Mohanta and Sujit Kumar, both of whom resigned from the BJD and joined the BJP soon after.

Mohanta left the BJD in June 2024, while Sujit Kumar — then a sitting Rajya Sabha MP with 18 months left in his term — crossed over to the BJP and was subsequently re-nominated and re-elected by the saffron party in the ensuing bypoll.

This succession of high-profile defections appears to be part of the BJP’s strategy to consolidate its base in Odisha following its 2024 Assembly victory, signalling a calculated move to absorb prominent regional faces and further weaken the BJD’s organizational depth.

Shockwaves in the BJD Camp

Amar Patnaik’s exit has reportedly sent shockwaves through the BJD, particularly because of his reputation as one of the party’s key strategists and modern communicators. His departure is being viewed as a significant blow to Naveen Patnaik’s leadership, which has already been under scrutiny after a series of setbacks in recent months.

During his campaign trail in Nuapada on the very day of Amar Patnaik’s defection, Naveen Patnaik took a direct swipe at the BJP, accusing it of “stealing votes” and “engineering defections for political gain.”

Political observers say Amar Patnaik’s exit could widen internal rifts within the BJD, particularly among its old guard and technocratic wing, who are now being closely watched for their next move.

Nuapada Bypoll: A Test of Strength

The timing of the defection — just days before the November 11 Nuapada bypoll — has added fresh intrigue to an already charged contest. Analysts believe that the by-election outcome could serve as a barometer for the BJP’s growing influence in western Odisha and the BJD’s ability to retain its stronghold.

With the BJP aggressively wooing high-profile defectors and projecting itself as the “new face of Odisha’s political future,” Amar Patnaik’s induction could give the saffron party a symbolic edge heading into the bypolls.

Looking Ahead

As Odisha’s political landscape continues to shift, Amar Patnaik’s crossover underscores a deeper realignment in state politics. With several prominent BJD figures reportedly in talks with the BJP, the saffron surge in Odisha shows no signs of slowing down.

Whether this momentum translates into lasting political gains will become clearer after Nuapada’s verdict on November 11, a bypoll that may very well set the tone for the next phase of Odisha’s power politics.

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