Bhubaneswar, Aug 29: The Biju Janata Dal (BJD) is facing internal unrest following the recent appointment of presidents for its youth and student wings. More than 50 student leaders have united in protest, challenging the leadership’s decision and alleging favoritism toward the Pandian faction within the party.

The discontent erupted after Ipsita Sahu and Chinmaya Sahu were named presidents of the Biju Chhatra Janata Dal (BCJD) and Biju Yuba Janata Dal (BYJD), respectively. Senior student leaders, including Asit Das, Rajesh Raj Swain, and Amit Jena, voiced their dissatisfaction, claiming the selection process lacked transparency and inclusivity.

In response to the growing dissent, a crisis management meeting was convened at Naveen Niwas, the residence of party supremo Naveen Patnaik. Leaders from both wings were summoned to discuss the fallout and strategize the path forward. Sources indicate that future appointments, including five remaining organizational district heads and women wing presidents, may face heightened scrutiny.

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Senior BJD leader Prafulla Mallik openly criticized the party’s current trajectory, stating that it has deviated from its foundational ideology. His remarks have intensified the debate within political circles, with many viewing the situation as a test of the party’s internal democracy.

Following the meeting, student leaders met with members of the Political Affairs Committee (PAC), issuing an ultimatum against the recent appointments and demanding corrective measures. The protestors emphasized the need for inclusive leadership and warned of further action if their concerns are not addressed.

The rebellion has exposed deep fissures within the party, particularly among grassroots youth and student cadres. As the BJD prepares for upcoming organizational appointments, the leadership faces mounting pressure to restore unity and credibility.