Discontent in BJD: Ex-MLA Critiques Naveen Patnaik
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Synopsis
Bhubaneswar, April 10 (NationPress) Following Naveen Patnaik's claims about former MLA Pravata Tripathy's suspension, Tripathy asserted that his suspension was revoked in 2017, refuting Patnaik's statement and criticizing the party's handling of the Waqf Amendment Act.
Key Takeaways
- Pravata Tripathy defends his party membership status.
- Claims suspension was revoked in 2017.
- Criticism aimed at V.K. Pandian for party decisions.
- Questions raised about Naveen Patnaik's silence on key issues.
- Allegations regarding chit fund scam remain unresolved.
Bhubaneswar, April 10 (NationPress) Following Biju Janata Dal (BJD) president Naveen Patnaik’s remarks on the suspension of former MLA Pravata Tripathy, the senior BJD figure responded on Thursday, asserting that the suspension order against him was revoked by the party back in 2017.
Tripathy claimed he remained a party member until recently, actively campaigning for BJD in both the 2019 and 2024 general elections.
In reaction to Patnaik’s assertions regarding his suspension, Tripathy stated, “My suspension was lifted in 2017. I have been engaged with the party during the 2019 and 2024 elections. I even shared the stage with Naveen during the last election campaign’s public meeting.”
Recently, Tripathy has openly criticized V.K. Pandian, a former bureaucrat and close associate of Patnaik, questioning his involvement in the BJD’s abrupt stance change on the Waqf (Amendment) Act, 2025.
On Thursday, the senior BJD leader also challenged Patnaik’s silence on the contentious Waqf (Amendment) Act, suggesting a calculated effort to evade the fundamental issue causing unrest within the party.
“From grassroots workers to senior leaders, there is a growing concern about who instructed our party MPs to vote based on their conscience on the Waqf (Amendment) Bill. Yet, Naveen Patnaik has said nothing on this matter during his media address,” remarked Tripathy at a press conference.
In regard to the allegations linking him to the chit fund scam, Tripathy noted that the case remains under trial and is sub judice.
“Even the Assembly cannot deliberate on such issues. Raising this now is a deliberate tactic to distract from the real problem and tarnish reputations like mine. I am innocent,” he asserted.
He further criticized Patnaik's leadership style, claiming that in order to maintain control, Naveen seeks to manage the party as if his word is absolute law.
Importantly, the BJD had previously indicated its intention to oppose the controversial Waqf Bill in the Rajya Sabha. However, senior BJD leader and Rajya Sabha MP Sasmit Patra later stated that the party had not issued any whip, allowing MPs to vote on the Bill according to their conscience.
This development has frustrated numerous party members, igniting significant internal discord over the past few days.
BJD president and Leader of Opposition Naveen Patnaik finally addressed the situation on Wednesday, warning leaders against criticizing and blaming his former close aide Pandian for the party’s change of position on the Bill.
Patnaik also remarked that Tripathy no longer belongs to the party.
