Bhubaneswar: Naveen Patnaik is all set to become the president of Biju Janata Dal (BJD) for the ninth time in a row. As no one else has filed nomination for the post, his election as president unopposed is almost certain. However, despite being the undisputed leader, Naveen is set to encounter numerous challenges this time. After being in power for 24 years, the BJD is now in the opposition. As president of the opposition party, Naveen will have to face multiple challenges. The simmering discontent within the party, following its defeat in last elections, has now taken the shape of a crisis over the Waqf vote. Several senior party leaders have openly questioned the decision, while voters and party workers outside are also in a dilemma. Questions are being raised over the Waqf vote as the BJD is known for its core principle of safeguarding secularism and social security.
How will Naveen address leaders’ discontent?
The Waqf vote row has added fuel to the growing disenchantment among BJD leaders. Some senior leaders have questioned the party’s direction, while others appear to have adopted a ‘wait and watch’ policy. After becoming BJD president for the ninth time, Naveen’s biggest challenge will be to manage internal affairs. Though VK Pandian has claimed to have moved away from active politics, allegations persist that he still influences important party decisions. This has triggered resentment, with leaders expressing their concerns by holding meetings in hotels and through indirect social media posts, and letters. Therefore, Naveen will need to clarify Pandian’s role in the party and work to restore confidence among senior leaders.
No Number 2, but committee!
Even though Naveen Patnaik has been the BJD president, discussions about a second power centre have often surfaced in the party. At times, names like Pranab Prakash Das and VK Pandian have been in the spotlight. However, this has caused more harm than good to the party. Therefore, Naveen may not project anyone as the party’s ‘Number Two’ this time. There is also talk that the BJD could revive its Political Affairs Committee. In the party’s early days, such a committee played a crucial role in political decisions. Now, forming such a committee could help curb internal conflicts as talks about Pandian and Bobby’s influence have surfaced during the BJD’s organisational elections.
Clarity on Waqf Vote
Though the BJD initially opposed the Waqf Amendment Bill, subsequently it left it to conscience of party MPs in Rajya Sabha and then took a major U-turn. This decision has not only confused minority voters but also created doubts among senior party leaders. In a letter to Naveen, Ranendra Pratap Swain has urged him to clarify the party’s stance on the issue. The BJD, which has always prioritised secularism and social security, now needs Naveen to bring clarity to its direction. This is crucial because minorities have been the party’s core voters for years. With panchayat elections approaching, if Naveen does not remove the confusion surrounding the Waqf vote, the party could face losses.
Opposition to BJP or Friendship?
Post-Waqf vote, discussions about the relationship between the BJD and the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) have intensified. Though the BJP made grand speeches about crackdown on corruption, it is yet to target any BJD heavyweight even 10 months after coming to power. Similarly, despite being the main opposition, the BJD’s opposition has not been sharp. In contrast, the Congress, with fewer MLAs, has been creating a stir both inside and outside the Assembly. Post-Waqf vote, it seems as if the BJD and BJP have sealed a bond of friendship. Therefore, Naveen will need to clarify whether the BJD will oppose or support the BJP.
