Student leader Harishankar Rout has resigned from the Biju Janata Dal (BJD), citing internal factionalism and accusing senior bureaucrat-turned-political strategist V.K. Pandian of monopolizing party decisions.
Rout alleged that the selection of student and youth wing presidents was orchestrated under Pandian’s directives, sidelining democratic processes. He claimed that Pandian, despite being a non-Odia, has taken control of the party’s functioning, reducing Naveen Patnaik to a mere puppet.
“Pandian’s grip over BJD has led to its current state. The people have already responded in the elections, but Naveen’s affection for Pandian remains unchanged,” Rout stated.
He further accused senior leaders like Byomkesh Ray and others of aligning themselves with Pandian, branding them as sycophants. Rout’s resignation has sparked fresh debate over internal democracy and leadership dynamics within the ruling party.
Political observers believe this could be a sign of growing unrest among grassroots leaders, especially ahead of the upcoming elections.
