Biju Janata Dal Takes Swift Action Against Two MLAs
The Biju Janata Dal made a significant move on Thursday by suspending two of its sitting MLAs. Party president Naveen Patnaik issued an official order for this disciplinary action. The suspension targets MLAs Arvind Mohapatra and Sanatan Mahakud. Both legislators face allegations of engaging in anti-party activities.
Timing Raises Political Eyebrows
This decision comes just months before the crucial Rajya Sabha polls. It has generated considerable discussion within BJD circles. The party has not provided specific details about the alleged misconduct. However, insiders suggest the action sends a clear message about party discipline.
Sanatan Mahakud's Growing Distance from BJD
Action against Mahakud was somewhat anticipated. The MLA from Champua assembly constituency had been distancing himself from party activities. He represents the Keonjhar parliamentary constituency area.
Mahakud recently criticized the BJD's development record in Keonjhar district. He pointed out the lack of progress during the party's 24-year rule. His remarks came amid increasing warmth with Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi.
This is not Mahakud's first brush with party discipline. In February last year, Patnaik publicly reprimanded him for missing a BJD legislature meeting. The party president suggested Mahakud was leaning towards BJP during that encounter.
Mahakud enjoys substantial popularity in his mineral-rich constituency. He first won as an independent before contesting successfully on a BJD ticket in 2024. His victory margin was impressive. The MLA also ranks among Odisha's wealthiest legislators with declared assets worth Rs 227 crore.
Arvind Mohapatra's Unexpected Suspension
The suspension of Arvind Mohapatra created particular buzz within the party. He represents the Patkura assembly segment under Kendrapara parliamentary constituency. Arvind is relatively new to politics, having left a corporate job abroad to join the BJD.
His political lineage adds complexity to the situation. Arvind is the son of veteran leader Bijoy Mohapatra, a founding BJD member expelled 25 years ago. Despite this background, Arvind secured a BJD ticket and won the 2024 assembly elections.
After his suspension, Arvind spoke to reporters about the situation. He maintained his innocence regarding any anti-party activities. I have always been a disciplined member of the BJD, he stated firmly.
The suspended MLA revealed he learned about the action through social media. He received no prior communication from the party. Nobody from the BJD contacted me before taking this step, Arvind explained. He also confirmed never receiving any show-cause notice.
Party Leadership Sends Strong Message
According to BJD insiders, Patnaik's decision aims to demonstrate swift action against indiscipline. The move comes amid speculation about growing dissent within party ranks. Senior BJD MLA Dibya Shankar Mishra commented on the situation.
Mishra emphasized the party president possesses adequate intelligence input about those working against BJD interests. This sends a clear message to everyone, he stated. Whoever works against the party will face strict action.
The senior leader defended the decision-making process. He noted that Patnaik always gathers comprehensive information before taking disciplinary steps. All relevant aspects receive careful consideration according to Mishra.
This suspension episode highlights internal dynamics within Odisha's main opposition party. With Rajya Sabha elections approaching, the BJD appears focused on maintaining organizational discipline. The action against two sitting MLAs underscores this priority as political preparations intensify.
