Bhubaneswar: Hours after quitting the ruling Biju Janata Dal, ex-minister & Simulia MLA Jyoti Panigrahi is said to remain with BJD. Reportedly, the conch Party appointed him as president of its Balasore unit.
“Shri Jyoti Prakash Panigrahi is hereby appointed as District President of Balasore District and Shri Aswini Kumar Patra, is hereby appointed as State Senior General Secretary, Biju Janata Dal with immediate effect,” read an order issued by BJD president Naveen Patnaik on Thursday.
Panigrahi today visited Naveen Niwas after getting a call.
“I felt hurt. I had tears in my eyes to break a 50-year-old relationship. I was loyal towards the party and continue to do so. The party has given me new responsibility. I will organise the party in Balasore district and ensure that party candidates get the maximum votes,” said Panigrahi after being appointed president of BJD’s Balasore unit.