Bhubaneswar, Dec 31: The year 2025 will be remembered as a defining chapter in Odisha’s political history. With the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) consolidating its position under Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi, the once-dominant Biju Janata Dal (BJD) faced desertions and internal dissent, while the Congress struggled to regain relevance despite organisational restructuring.

BJP’s Ascendancy

Having formed the government for the first time in Odisha 19 months ago, the BJP strengthened its hold during 2025. The Nuapada by-election proved a turning point, with the party wresting the seat from BJD by over 83,000 votes. Chief Minister Majhi’s personal involvement in the campaign boosted his stature within the party and government. The defection of Jay Dholakia, son of former BJD Minister Rajendra Dholakia, further highlighted the BJP’s growing appeal.

BJD’s Decline

The BJD, led by Naveen Patnaik, struggled throughout the year. The party faced a rough start with controversy over its U-turn on opposing the Waqf Amendment Bill in Rajya Sabha, exposing divisions in its parliamentary wing. High-profile exits, including Amar Patnaik, former Rajya Sabha member and social media cell chief, added to the crisis. The Nuapada bypoll highlighted the waning charisma of Naveen Patnaik, as the party’s candidate finished distant third behind Congress.

Congress Restructuring and Dissent

The Congress attempted revival by appointing firebrand leader Bhakta Charan Das as OPCC president in February. However, internal dissent resurfaced after the Nuapada bypoll, with leaders questioning the state leadership.

In a significant disciplinary move, the Congress expelled Odisha ex-MLA Mohammed Moquim for anti-party activities following his criticisms of the leadership and candidate selection processes, further exposing cracks within the organisation.

National Events Boost BJP Image

Events such as Pravasi Odia Divas and Utkarsh Odisha–Make-in-Odisha Conclave, attended by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, bolstered the BJP’s image in the state. These initiatives created a perception of proactive governance and strengthened the ruling party’s connect with citizens.

Dharmendra Pradhan’s Role in Bihar Polls

Odisha’s popular leader and Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan played a major role outside the state as BJP’s election in-charge for the Bihar Assembly polls. His organisational skills and campaign management were credited with strengthening the party’s performance, further enhancing his stature within the national leadership.

Governance Challenges

Despite political gains, the BJP government faced criticism over administrative inexperience. The proposed 3.5-fold hike in salaries and allowances of MLAs and ministers had to be deferred after public backlash, reflecting the challenges of balancing governance with perception.

Historic Address by President Murmu

On November 27, President Droupadi Murmu addressed the members of the Odisha Legislative Assembly in Bhubaneswar. Highlighting the state’s abundant natural and human resources, she said Odisha’s environment is ideal for agriculture, industry, and commerce. She urged collective efforts to transform Odisha into a leading state by its centenary in 2036, contributing to India’s vision of becoming a developed nation by 2047, and expressed confidence in the spirit of “Nation First.”

Looking Ahead

As Odisha heads into 2026, the political dynamics remain fluid. The BJP seeks to consolidate its gains, the BJD struggles to arrest decline, and the Congress attempts revival. The coming year will test the resilience and adaptability of all three major players.