Bhubaneswar, Aug 25: The Biju Janata Dal (BJD) is witnessing growing internal dissent amid speculation that former bureaucrat-turned-politician VK Pandian is preparing to hand over the reins of the party to his wife, Sujata Karthikeyan.

Reports suggest that the Pandian camp is actively strategizing to position Sujata as a key figure in the BJD’s future leadership.

However, this move appears to have triggered unrest among senior BJD leaders. Following earlier criticism from BJD MP Debashish Samantaray, veteran MLA Ranendra Pratap Swain has now voiced his discontent, indirectly targeting Pandian during a public address. Swain referenced Pandian’s recent remark, “I am down but not out,” and responded sharply, saying, “I have stepped out to illuminate a house that has long remained in darkness.”

Also Read: Naveen Patnaik’s Hospital Video With VK Pandian Sparks Political Turmoil In BJD

Swain’s comments, delivered from a party platform, are being interpreted as a direct challenge to Pandian’s growing influence. He questioned the lack of transparency surrounding former Chief Minister and BJD president Naveen Patnaik’s health, suggesting that party leaders and the public were kept in the dark. This echoes Samantaray’s earlier allegation that Patnaik was effectively isolated during critical periods, including the COVID-19 pandemic.

Adding fuel to the fire, BJP MLA Saroj Padhi accused Pandian of staying close to Patnaik for control over party funds, claiming that the BJD’s financial resources are being eyed for personal gain. In response, BJD spokespersons Lenin Mohanty and Tumbhnath Panda dismissed the allegations, stating that Pandian had retired from active politics and continues to support Patnaik in a personal capacity.

Also Read: VK Pandian’s Shadow Leadership Fuels BJD Discord Amid Patnaik’s Illness

Meanwhile, senior BJD leader Devi Prasad Mishra clarified that Samantaray’s remarks were personal and not reflective of the party’s official stance. Nonetheless, the back-to-back statements from senior party leaders have exposed a rare public rift within a party long known for its centralized leadership under Patnaik.

As speculation grows over succession and control, all eyes are on how the BJD navigates this internal storm and whether Pandian’s role will evolve further.

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