Bhubaneswar: Days after suspending two sitting MLAs from the party, Biju Janata Dal (BJD) president Naveen Patnaik on Tuesday held a fresh meeting with senior leaders in Bhubaneswar to discuss key issues before the regional outfit.
As per sources, senior leaders, including former ministers Pradeep Amat, Badri Narayan Patra, Rajanikant Singh, gathered at Naveen Niwas for a fresh round of discussion with the former chief minister.
While there was no immediate information about the topic of discussion at the meeting, observers feel that the BJD supremo may make some major decisions to strengthen the organisation and keep the party united amid growing challenges.
Before the leaders proceeded to Naveen Niwas, another key meeting was reportedly held at the residence of senior leader Pramila Mallik. Prominent leaders from jajpur, including Pranab Prakash Das, Pranab Balabantaray, and MLA Biswa Ranjan Mallick, attended the meeting.
Responding to queries, Pramila Mallik reported stated that the leaders came
together to strengthen the party and warned that strict action will be taken against anyone acting against the party’s interests.
Speaking in same vein, Bari MLA Biswa Ranjan Mallick said the ongoing meetings are being held with the sole objective of strengthening the party.
Detailed plans and strategies prepared during these discussions will be presented before party president Naveen Patnaik for further guidance and action, he said.
The statement comes amid political discussions and speculation surrounding recent BJD meetings, with leaders emphasising unity and organizational strengthening.
It may be noted that Naveen had earlier held three rounds of meetings with party MLAs to hear their views and also to assess the situation within the party.
The seriousness of the exercise became clear when two MLAs – Sanatan Mahakud and Aravind Mohapatra – were suspended on January 15, the same day as the third meeting with10 legislators.
The move showed that the leadership was ready to take action, not just hold discussions with an emphasis on discipline and unity within the organisation.
Sources said that the focus in BJD appears to have now shifted to two or three leaders or MLAs who are accused of creating indiscipline and making embarrassing statements. One wonders if Naveen Patnaik will take further action and assert that discipline and loyalty are essential to remain in the regional party.