Odisha’s Food Supplies and Consumer Welfare Minister Krushna Chandra Patra has ignited a political firestorm with explosive remarks questioning the future of the Biju Janata Dal (BJD) and levelling serious allegations against V.K. Pandian, a close aide of Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik.
In a blunt critique of the party’s current state, Patra stated, “The future of BJD is uncertain. The party is facing a serious leadership crisis. No one has trust left in the leadership of Naveen Patnaik.”
He went on to claim that the BJD no longer functions with collective leadership and has veered out of control. Most notably, he alleged that V.K. Pandian — once considered the de facto power centre of the BJD — is no longer in command and is preparing to leave the country amid rising public anger and potential legal repercussions.
“The so-called director of the party, who pulled the strings from behind the scenes, is now trying to run away. But the people of Odisha will not let him loot the state and flee. Even if action hasn’t been taken yet, it will happen — no one will be spared,” Patra warned.
His statement has further intensified the already simmering unrest within the BJD, with political observers now closely watching for reactions from party leadership and possible repercussions in the days ahead.