The political battle in Odisha intensified on Monday after Debashish Samantaray resigned from the Biju Janata Dal, triggering a sharp and personal counterattack from senior party leaders.
The BJD accused the former Rajya Sabha MP of abandoning the party for “personal and business interests” and alleged that he was looking toward the BJP’s so-called “washing machine” to solve his troubles.
Pramila Mallik Launches Scathing Attack
Senior BJD leader Pramila Mallik rejected Samantaray’s claim that he was “systematically belittled” inside the party.
She said party president Naveen Patnaik had repeatedly trusted and promoted him throughout his political career.
“Naveen Patnaik made him an MLA, appointed him chairman of the Film Development Corporation, made him BJD president for Cuttack district and later sent him to the Rajya Sabha,” Mallik said.
Despite receiving multiple opportunities, she alleged, Samantaray chose to leave the party for selfish reasons.
‘BJP Washing Machine’ Remark Sparks Attention
In one of the strongest remarks, Mallik claimed Samantaray believed the BJP’s “washing machine” would clean up his alleged controversies.
“The BJP operates a washing machine, which he perhaps believes will clean up his mess,” she alleged.
Mallik further accused him of joining the BJP to protect business interests linked to his construction ventures.
The comments quickly drew attention across Odisha’s political circles and social media platforms.
BJD Questions His Contribution to Odisha
The ruling party also questioned Samantaray’s public service record during his tenure as MP.
“He was elected to serve the people, not to seek service from the party,” Mallik said.
She argued that lawmakers are expected to raise issues concerning Odisha and work for public welfare instead of seeking personal gains from political positions.
According to the BJD leadership, Samantaray failed to actively contribute to the party after its electoral setback.
Waqf Bill Absence Adds Political Heat
The controversy around the Waqf Bill also resurfaced during the attack.
Mallik alleged that Samantaray maintained close contact with the BJP after the BJD’s electoral defeat and hinted that his absence during the Waqf Bill proceedings may have been politically motivated.
“The BJP probably directed him to remain absent,” she claimed.
Lenin Mohanty Says Exit Won’t Affect BJD
BJD leader Lenin Mohanty echoed similar views and said Samantaray’s departure would not weaken the organisation.
“He took advantage of every position offered by the party. If he has now chosen to leave for business interests, that is his decision,” Mohanty said.
He also claimed that Samantaray’s contribution to the party had reduced significantly over the past four years.
What Debashish Samantaray Said in Resignation
In his resignation letter, Samantaray reportedly stated that he felt “systematically belittled” within the party and believed his services were no longer valued.
His exit marks another significant political development in Odisha as regional parties prepare for future electoral battles and shifting alliances.
The resignation and the BJD’s aggressive response have now intensified speculation about Samantaray’s possible next move and whether he may formally join the Bharatiya Janata Party in the coming days.
