Odisha Alliance: BJP-BJD Talks in Delhi Amidst Uncertainty

With no clear indication from either the BJP or the BJD on the possibility of an alliance in Odisha, all eyes are now on Delhi where crucial meetings are taking place. The states top BJP leaders have been camping in the capital, holding a series of meetings to discuss the matter. Meanwhile, the BJD remains tight-lipped about its intentions.

In the absence of any definitive statements from either the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) or the Biju Janata Dal (BJD) regarding the possibility of an alliance in Odisha, all eyes are now on Delhi, where saffron party leaders are engaged in extensive discussions.

BJP Leaders in Delhi for Alliance Talks

While the BJD maintains a guarded stance, key BJP leaders from Odisha, including state president Manmohan Samal and election in-charge Vijay Pal Singh Tomar, have been stationed in Delhi. These leaders have held a series of meetings at the residence of Union Minister Dharmendra Pradhan.

Mixed Views on Alliance Within BJP

Sources within the BJP indicate that there is a division of opinion regarding a potential alliance with the BJD. Some leaders are opposed to the idea, citing the BJD's decision to sever ties with the saffron party ahead of the 2009 general elections, following a riot in Kandhamal the previous year.

Alliance Discussions Triggered by PM Modi's Visit

The issue of an alliance between the BJD and BJP gained prominence after Prime Minister Narendra Modi's visit to Odisha on March 5. The following day, the BJD convened a meeting of its senior leaders to discuss the matter.

Pradhan's Role in Alliance Negotiations

Sources reveal that Union Minister Dharmendra Pradhan has been tasked with engaging in discussions with Odisha BJP leaders regarding the possibility of an alliance with the BJD. Pradhan is expected to convey the views of the state leaders to the party's top leadership, who will then make a decision on the matter.

BJD Awaits BJP's Decision

Meanwhile, the BJD is adopting a wait-and-see approach, awaiting the BJP's decision. BJD leader and MLA Parsuram Dhada expressed confidence in the party's leadership and stated that the rank and file would abide by the decision of Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik. He acknowledged that alliances have occurred in the past and may happen again.

BJP Leader Downplays Alliance Speculation

On the other hand, BJP leader Suryavanshi Suraj dismissed the buzz surrounding the alliance as mere media speculation. He reiterated the stance of the state president and the party's state in-charge, who have previously declared the BJP's intention to contest the upcoming twin polls independently.

History of BJD-BJP Alliance

The BJD and BJP were previously in an alliance for approximately 11 years, from 1998 to 2009. During this period, they jointly contested three Lok Sabha and two Assembly elections.

Conclusion

As the BJP and BJD continue their deliberations, the political landscape in Odisha remains uncertain. The decision on a potential alliance between the two parties will have significant implications for the upcoming twin polls and the future of politics in the state.