Bhubaneswar: In a major setback for BJD in South Odisha, senior leaders – N Bhaskar Rao and Lal Bihari Himirika – resigned from the primary membership of the party on Tuesday.
The decision followed the recent meeting of elected panchayat representatives, councillors, and senior leaders at the residence of Roa, a former Rajya Sabha member, after the announcement of Jagannath Saraka as president of BJD’s Rayagada district president.
Addressing a presser, Roa expressed his displeasure over recent decisions taken in the party. “A defeated person has been picked as the president ignoring capable leaders. This has hurt the sentiments of the workers. We are not against Naveen Patnaik and have been loyal soldiers of the party,” he said.
Announcing formation of Biju Swabhiman Mancha, Roa added that Biju Patnaik has always been an inspiration for them and they would continue to follow his ideals.
Former minister and tribal leader Himirika was also present at the press meet. Their exit is likely to impact the party in the upcoming panchayat elections.
