Growing Factionalism Reaches Peak
The internal conflict within the Biju Janata Dal (BJD) has reportedly reached its peak, with rising tensions within the party following its setback in the 2024 general elections. The situation has intensified with allegations of internal power struggles and leadership maneuvering within the party.

Resignation of Rajya Sabha Leader Sparks Debate
In a significant development, Rajya Sabha leader Sasmit Patra has stepped down from his position as the leader of the party in the Upper House. His resignation has triggered widespread discussions within political circles, with many questioning whether he was forced to resign or stepped down voluntarily. Patra had been serving in the role since July 2022.

Allegations of Internal Power Politics
Party insiders suggest that the resignation may be linked to internal party dynamics and influence wielded by BJD’s unofficial power center, VK Pandian. It is alleged that Pandian’s close associate, MP Manas Mangaraj, played a role in orchestrating efforts to remove Patra from his post. However, there has been no official confirmation of these claims.

Confusion Over Leadership Transition
Sources within the party indicate that a group of MPs had written to party supremo Naveen Patnaik requesting Patra’s removal. While Patra reportedly submitted a written resignation to the party leadership, clarity remains lacking on whether the decision was accepted or communicated to the Rajya Sabha Chairman.

Controversy Around Replacement and Roles
With the induction of new Rajya Sabha MP Santrupta Mishra, discussions have emerged about a possible restructuring within the party’s parliamentary and organizational roles. Speculation is rife that Mishra may be assigned responsibilities in Delhi, while Mangaraj could play a key role in Odisha-based party affairs.

Pandian’s Alleged Strategic Influence
VK Pandian is said to be actively shaping internal party strategy behind the scenes. Reports suggest that he has been meeting party leaders and assigning roles to his close associates, thereby consolidating influence over party operations.

Concerns Over Marginalization of Senior Leaders
The ongoing developments have raised concerns within the party regarding the sidelining of senior and experienced leaders. Critics argue that such moves could weaken the party’s internal structure and long-term stability.

Growing Discontent Within the Party
The situation has led to increasing dissatisfaction among party members, with many questioning the rationale behind these decisions. Observers believe that the recent leadership changes and internal power shifts could further intensify factionalism within the BJD in the coming days.

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Session Held in Two Phases for 22 Days
The Odisha Legislative Assembly’s Budget Session concluded today, earlier than scheduled. The session, which began on February 17 and was originally slated to continue until April 8, saw a total of 22 sitting days across two phases.

Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi presented the state Budget for the financial year 2026–27 on February 20.

Frequent Disruptions and Opposition Protests
The proceedings were marked by repeated disruptions. In the first phase, opposition members protested over alleged irregularities in paddy procurement, leading to several days of stalled House proceedings.

In the second phase, opposition parties continued protests for nine consecutive days, demanding the resignation of the Health Minister over the SCB Medical College fire incident. As a result, much of the legislative business could not function normally.

Despite the disruptions, opposition members participated in discussions on the Appropriation Bill.

Key Legislative Business Completed
On the final day, the Assembly witnessed nearly four hours of discussions before passing the Odisha Government Universities Cadre Reservation Bill, 2026. The bill aims to ensure reservation policies in teaching appointments by treating each state-run university as a single unit.

However, the bill related to salary hikes for ministers and MLAs, as well as pensions for former legislators, was withdrawn after several members demanded a review. Parliamentary Affairs Minister Mukesh Mahaling stated that the decision was taken following calls for reconsideration.

Discussion on Reservation and Vacancy Concerns
Higher Education Minister Suryabanshi Suraj highlighted that while central institutions follow a unified reservation system, Odisha lacked such a framework for its state universities.

He also pointed out that out of 2,086 sanctioned teaching posts in state universities, only 659 are currently filled, emphasizing the need for legislation to address vacancies and ensure representation of SC, ST, SEBC, and other categories.

Opposition Demands and Debate
Opposition leaders, including Ranendra Pratap Swain, Arun Kumar Sahoo, Ashok Das, Dhruva Charan Sahu, and Ganeshwar Behera, demanded that the bill be referred to a Select Committee for further review. However, the government argued for its immediate implementation due to its importance.

The Speaker later allowed discussions, but the opposition strongly opposed the bill.

Tributes and Adjournment
The House also witnessed discussions on Biju Babu in the morning session, followed by extensive debates on the budget and the reservation bill.

In his closing remarks, Chief Minister Majhi thanked all members for their participation. Opposition Chief Whip Pramila Mallik and Congress MLA Ashok Das also expressed gratitude on behalf of their respective parties.

At 12:41 AM, the Speaker adjourned the House sine die, marking the end of the Budget Session after a turbulent yet productive legislative period.

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The husband of BJD MLA Manorama Mohanty has approached the Orissa High Court seeking anticipatory bail, fearing arrest in a high-profile case involving alleged death threats to a government official. The incident has triggered widespread discussion in Kalahandi district.

Complaint Filed by Narla Tehsildar

The case began when Bibhuti Prasad Singh filed a complaint at a local police station. He alleged that Durga Prasad Mohanty, who is also the Narla block chairman, threatened him during a phone conversation over a land dispute between Balisinga and Salepada villages.

According to the complaint, the discussion escalated, and Mohanty allegedly used abusive language and issued death threats.

Police Register Case Under BNS Sections

Following the complaint, police registered a case under multiple sections of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, including charges related to criminal intimidation and threats to life.

Authorities have launched a search operation, and officers even visited the MLA’s residence in Bhubaneswar over the weekend as part of their investigation.

Accused Goes Missing Amid Investigation

Despite efforts, Durga Prasad Mohanty has not been located so far. Police continue their search as the investigation progresses, raising further concerns about the seriousness of the allegations.

High Court Appeal for Anticipatory Bail

In a bid to avoid arrest, Mohanty has moved the High Court seeking anticipatory bail. He has argued that he fears being falsely implicated and arrested without sufficient grounds.

The court is yet to take a final decision on the plea.

Political and Administrative Implications

The case has sparked political debate, with questions being raised about the influence of local leaders and the balance between political power and administrative responsibility in rural Odisha.

Observers say the incident highlights potential tensions between elected representatives and government officials.

Land Dispute Still Unresolved

At the heart of the controversy is an ongoing land dispute between two villages. The issue remains unresolved, and local residents continue to be affected by the conflict.

Case Under Close Watch

As the High Court reviews the anticipatory bail application, the case continues to draw attention across Odisha. The outcome may shed light on the broader dynamics between politics, administration, and law enforcement in the region.

The post Fear of Arrest: BJD MLA’s Husband Runs to High Court After Alleged Death Threat to Tehsildar appeared first on Odisha Connect.

Cuttack, Odisha – The Biju Janata Dal (BJD) in Cuttack is currently grappling with a potential internal crisis as 14 corporators have reportedly threatened to resign, sending shockwaves through the municipal administration. The development underscores rising tensions within the party at the grassroots level.

Closed-Door Meeting Sparks Rebellion

The unrest follows a strategic, two-hour “closed-door” meeting held at the residence of former MLA Prabhat Biswal. Thirteen corporators from the Cuttack-Choudwar constituency pledged their loyalty to Biswal, despite his recent expulsion from the party. The rebellion comes in the wake of a double setback for the Biswal family: Prabhat’s expulsion and the suspension of his son, MLA Souvic Biswal, for allegedly defying a party whip in the Rajya Sabha.

Mayor Calls for Unity Amid Rising Tensions

In response to the crisis, Cuttack Mayor Subhash Singh adopted a conciliatory approach, addressing the media to dispel rumours of a split. “There is no dispute among us; we stand united for the city’s progress,” he said, referring to all 59 corporators as his “brothers and sisters.” The Mayor stressed that development in Cuttack remains the party’s primary focus, urging patience for clarity on the issue.

Grassroots Support Challenges Party Hierarchy

Despite the Mayor’s assurances, the open support for the expelled leader by a significant number of elected representatives highlights a growing challenge to the BJD hierarchy. Political analysts suggest that the rebellion could reshape the party’s influence in Cuttack if the underlying tensions are not addressed promptly.

Outlook: Tense Atmosphere at CMC

The atmosphere at the Cuttack Municipal Corporation (CMC) remains tense, with the potential for further political fallout. Observers note that the coming days will be critical in determining whether the BJD can contain the crisis or if it will lead to a larger realignment within the city’s political landscape.

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The Constitutional Gambit

“Filth is Being Filtered”: Pramila Mallik Hits Back

A High-Stakes Standoff

The Key Allegations:

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Amid intensifying political heat and an ongoing case in the Odisha High Court, Naveen Patnaik, president of the Biju Janata Dal (BJD), has publicly defended the formation of the “Biju Naveen Inspirational Foundation” Trust, invoking the legacy of his father, Biju Patnaik.

“Charity Was in Biju Babu’s DNA”

Responding to allegations of opacity, Naveen Patnaik highlighted his father’s global reputation for philanthropy. He pointed to Biju Patnaik’s contribution to science through the institution of the Kalinga Prize, which he personally funded to promote scientific temper worldwide.

“Biju Babu was known for his charitable work. This foundation is a continuation of that legacy of service and inspiration,” Patnaik said, positioning the trust as a social initiative rooted in public welfare.

Controversy Deepens, PIL Filed in High Court

The trust has sparked a major political controversy, with the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) alleging that it was used for questionable fund collection and to manage BJD-linked properties in Delhi.

The issue has now reached the Odisha High Court through a Public Interest Litigation (PIL) filed by senior advocate Shivsankar Mohanty. The petition seeks a thorough investigation into the foundation’s formation, funding sources, and operational transparency.

Rajya Sabha Row Fuels Political Fire

The controversy escalated further during the recent Rajya Sabha elections when BJP spokesperson Anil Biswal accused BJD candidate Santrupt Misra of not disclosing his role as Secretary of the foundation in his election affidavit.

The BJP has raised questions over whether such non-disclosure could attract disqualification, intensifying the political confrontation between the two parties.

BJD Calls Allegations “Politically Motivated”

The BJD has strongly rejected the allegations, terming them “baseless” and politically driven. Party insiders maintain that the foundation aims to institutionalize the ideals and contributions of both Biju Patnaik and Naveen Patnaik for future generations.

All Eyes on Court Proceedings

With the Odisha High Court set to hear the matter, the “Biju-Naveen Inspirational Foundation” has emerged as a key flashpoint in Odisha politics. The case now places the legacy of the Patnaik family under judicial scrutiny, even as political tensions continue to rise in the state.

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Three MLAs Suspended for Defying Party Whip

In a major political development following the Rajya Sabha elections in Odisha, the Congress party has suspended three of its MLAs for alleged anti-party activities and cross voting.

The suspended legislators include Sanakhemundi MLA Ramesh Jena, Mohana MLA Dasarathi Gamang, and Barabati-Cuttack MLA Sofia Firdous. The action was taken after they reportedly defied the party whip and voted in favour of BJP-supported candidate Dilip Ray during the polls.

Violation of Party Ideology and Discipline

According to party sources, the three MLAs went against the official directive issued by the Congress and acted contrary to the party’s ideology. Their actions were seen as a serious breach of discipline.

Odisha Pradesh Congress Committee’s disciplinary committee took strong note of the matter and initiated strict action against them.

Disciplinary Committee Confirms Action

Committee chairman Sujit Padhy confirmed that the MLAs were suspended for violating party discipline and engaging in anti-party activities. The party emphasized that such actions would not be tolerated under any circumstances.

Cuttack Leader Expelled from Party

In a separate but related action, Cuttack city Congress leader Giribala Behera has been expelled from the party. She has been removed from primary membership over allegations of continuous anti-party activities.

The party stated that she had been inactive in organizational work and was repeatedly involved in activities that harmed the party’s interests.

Political Tensions Rise in Odisha

The developments have intensified political tensions in Odisha, exposing internal rifts within the Congress at a crucial time. The cross voting episode is likely to have wider implications for the party’s unity and electoral strategy in the state.

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