Bhubaneswar, Sept 12: The Biju Janata Dal (BJD), Odisha’s dominant regional party, is facing a wave of internal dissent as senior leader and former minister Prafulla Mallik left the party amid allegations of authoritarian control and suppression of internal voices. His departure follows a series of outspoken criticisms from veteran leaders, raising questions about the party’s internal democracy and leadership style.

Mallik’s Exit Sparks Controversy

Mallik, a four-time MLA and former Steel & Mines Minister, claimed he resigned voluntarily, rejecting the party’s assertion that he was suspended for “anti-party activities.” His resignation came within 24 hours of publicly criticizing the party’s functioning and leadership, particularly targeting what he described as a “coterie” surrounding the top leadership.

Dissent Brewing Among Veterans

Mallik’s exit is not isolated. Other senior leaders like N Bhaskar Rao and Lal Bihari Himirika have also resigned recently, protesting the appointment of new district leadership and accusing the party of sidelining grassroots voices.

After resigning from the BJD, senior leader N. Bhaskar Rao began asserting his independent political influence in southern Odisha. His faction has reportedly moved a no-confidence motion against the Vice-Chairperson of Rayagada Municipality, signaling a possible attempt to destabilize the urban body.

Moreover, leaders such as Debashish Samantray, Ranendra Pratap Swain, Arun Sahoo and Badrinarayan Patra have expressed dissatisfaction, either directly or indirectly, with the growing influence of unelected aides and the lack of consultative decision-making.

Leadership Under Fire

The party’s spokesperson Lenin Mohanty defended the disciplinary actions, stating they serve as warnings to others who challenge the party’s unity. However, critics argue that the BJD is adopting a “Hitlerian” approach—silencing dissent and punishing those who speak out. The internal unrest has led to speculation about further exits and the emergence of alternative platforms like the “Biju Swabhiman Mancha.”

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