Bhubaneswar, Dec 26: Factional fault lines within the Biju Janata Dal (BJD) have become increasingly visible following the party’s defeat in the 2024 Lok Sabha and Odisha Assembly elections, compounded by the recent Nuapada bypoll setback, with sharp public remarks by senior leaders underscoring growing unease within the organisation.

At the party’s foundation day programme, Rajya Sabha MP Muzibulla (Munna) Khan issued a strong warning against what he described as “dual loyalties” within the BJD, asserting that such conduct would no longer be tolerated. Without naming anyone, Khan’s remarks were widely seen as a veiled reference to the expanding influence of VK Pandian within the party.

“Biju Babu used to say that officers who do not work should be slapped. Our leader Naveen Patnaik taught us lessons in peace and discipline, but that approach will no longer work in the present situation,” Khan said.

“Those playing a double game will not be spared. I have already conveyed this to Naveen Patnaik,” Khan said from the stage, reiterating that the BJD must return to what he termed the “Biju Babu formula.”

“Our leader is Naveen Patnaik. We must stand under his leadership alone. There should be no flattery, no working under anyone else, and no parallel centres of power,” he said.

Referring to the party’s ideological roots, Khan said the BJD must re-embrace the political approach of its founder Biju Patnaik, adding that internal discipline could no longer be compromised. “This party was built through hard work. Anyone who wants to stay must work only under Naveen Patnaik’s direction,” he said.

Khan also drew a sharp contrast between Biju Patnaik’s style of governance and the current situation, saying, “Biju Babu believed in strict accountability. What worked earlier may not work now. Two-headed leadership will not be accepted.”

Pandian Factor Fuels Debate
Khan’s remarks come amid ongoing debate within the BJD over VK Pandian’s political influence and the possible entry of his wife, former IAS officer Sujata Karthikeyan, into active politics. While Sujata Karthikeyan did not join the party on BJD's foundation day, the issue continues to divide party leaders.

Senior BJD leader Bhupinder Singh, who had earlier made similar remarks, reiterated that the party’s identity remains inseparable from Naveen Patnaik’s leadership. “If Naveen Patnaik is not leading, where does the BJD stand?” he asked.

Pro-Pandian Voices Push Back
Pro-Pandian leaders, however, struck a different note. Senior leader Pravat Ranjan Biswal openly supported Sujata Karthikeyan’s political entry, stating that the BJD’s Rajya Sabha quota seat should be allotted to her. Several youth and student wing leaders also advocated stronger women’s leadership, expressing readiness to work under her guidance.

Counter Reactions Within Party
Countering Khan’s remarks indirectly, senior BJD leader Pratap Jena accused certain individuals of attempting to create confusion within the party while maintaining links with rival political formations. He said internal issues should be resolved through organisational forums rather than public statements.

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Earlier Dissent
Munna Khan had emerged as the face of dissent within the BJD after opposing the party’s position on the Waqf Bill in Parliament. In May 2025, he resigned from the party’s minority cell, though he continues as a Rajya Sabha MP.