Naveen Patnaik's BJD Hints At Pact With BJP, 15 Years After Quitting NDA
NDTV
A potential pact between the two parties marks a significant shift in the political dynamics of the state, especially considering the BJD's departure from the National Democratic Alliance (NDA) 15 years ago.
The ruling Biju Janata Dal (BJD) in Odisha has hinted at a potential alliance with the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) ahead of the upcoming Lok Sabha elections. On Wednesday, leaders of the BJD convened for an extensive session at Naveen Niwas, the official residence of Odisha Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik. Simultaneously, counterparts from the BJP, including its state unit chief Manmohan Samal, gathered in the national capital for a parallel meeting, engaging in discussions related to electoral affairs, with a particular focus on the possibility of forging an alliance.
A potential pact between the two parties marks a significant shift in the political dynamics of the state, especially considering the BJD's departure from the National Democratic Alliance (NDA) 15 years ago, which had prompted former BJP leader and minister Sushma Swaraj to say that Naveen Patnaik would "regret" snapping ties after an 11-year understanding.
While no formal announcement has been made, BJD vice president and MLA Debi Prasad Mishra confirmed the discussions but stopped short of confirming the formation of an alliance. "Biju Janata Dal will prioritise the greater interests of the people of Odisha. Yes, there were discussions on the issue (alliance)," Mr Mishra told reporters after the meeting at Naveen Niwas.
