The Biju Janata Dal (BJD) is currently facing intense internal unrest as the party grapples with mounting criticism and confusion over its stand on the Waqf Bill.
What began as a controversy involving Rajya Sabha MP Sasmit Patra’s support for the Bill has now exposed deeper rifts and discontent within the party ranks.
Senior BJD leader Bhupinder Singh, in a candid assessment of the situation, acknowledged the growing unrest, warning that the party could no longer remain in denial.
“This is not a small issue. There is undeniable discontent within the organization. We must accept that cracks have appeared and address them sincerely. But this turbulence is temporary and will eventually pass,” Singh said.
He reaffirmed the party’s longstanding commitment to inclusivity and secularism, stating, “Our president has always promoted religious harmony. The BJD respects all communities equally and has never endorsed any form of discrimination.” Singh also assured that the developments surrounding Sasmit Patra would be reviewed thoroughly.
Adding to the tension, senior leader and party spokesperson Debashish Samantray came to Patra’s defense, claiming that the MP was simply following directives and not acting independently.
“Sasmit Patra was carrying out instructions. The accountability lies beyond him—there are others involved behind the scenes,” Samantray said, hinting at internal power dynamics.
This controversy has sparked widespread concern among party workers and supporters, especially at the grassroots level, who are questioning the leadership’s silence and lack of clear direction. Critics argue that the party’s once-unified secular and people-first image now appears muddled, and ideological differences are becoming increasingly visible.
As tensions simmer, senior voices within the BJD are calling for urgent introspection, accountability, and course correction to restore public trust and party cohesion.
