Odisha turncoats in a spot over possible BJPBJD alliance
In the negotiations over seats between the two parties, they might find themselves overlooked
At a time when the announcement of a formal alliance between the BJP and the Biju Janata Dal (BJD) in Odisha appears imminent, leaders who switched sides to the saffron camp from the regional party find themselves in a tight spot. They fear being sidelined in the discussions over seat allocation for the elections.
Recently, four MLAs, all formerly associated with the BJD, and over 10 former MLAs, had joined the BJP, anticipating that the party would mount a serious challenge against the regional party. They harboured hopes of contesting the elections on BJP ticket.
Pradeep Panigrahi, the MLA representing Gopalpur in Ganjam district, was seen as a valuable acquisition for the BJP. Once a trusted ally of Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik, he held the responsibility of representing Mr. Patnaik in his Hinjili constituency. Mr. Panigrahi also served as the BJD’s Ganjam president. Ganjam is the home district of the Chief Minister.
However, his standing within the BJD took a hit due to allegations of making false assurances regarding job opportunities. Mr. Panigrahi had, however, vehemently denied these charges, claiming that they were orchestrated by the ruling party to tarnish his reputation. He later joined the BJP.
Before negotiations for alliances commenced, the State BJP leadership recognised the potential benefits of leveraging Mr. Panigrahi’s experience. He also remained optimistic about restoring his public image, despite the setbacks within his former party.
Similarly, Premanand Naik, a former Minister and legislator representing the BJD , faced public embarrassment in his Telkoi constituency when the party purportedly supported another leader. This led to his resignation from the party, after which he joined the BJP.
Prasant Jagdev, the MLA from the Chilika constituency, holds significant sway in three constituencies within Khordha district. However, his tenure with the BJD came to an halt after he was suspended for allegedly assaulting a Dalit BJP leader. Despite his reputation for employing strongarm tactics, Mr. Jagdev’s potential to challenge the ruling party in the election cannot be underestimated.
Arabinda Dhali, a sixtime MLA, has been representing the Jayadev constituency for the BJD. He recently made a return to the BJP after a decade, possibly foreseeing being sidelined by the BJD during candidate selection. Mr. Dhali also holds considerable influence in Malkangiri district.
Given the evolving situation, these leaders might not be as valuable to the BJP any more.
In the negotiations over seat allocations, these leaders might find themselves being overlooked, thereby losing their opportunity to contest the elections.