1. BJD and BJP contemplate rekindling alliance ahead of elections.
2. Potential alliance signals a notable turnaround since BJD’s exit from NDA in 2009.
3. Talks hint at renewed collaboration between Odisha’s major political players.
Bhubaneswar, March 07: The prospect of a renewed alliance between the Biju Janata Dal (BJD) and the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) in Odisha has emerged ahead of the upcoming Lok Sabha and assembly elections.
This potential alliance marks a significant shift after the BJD exited the BJP-led National Democratic Alliance (NDA) in 2009 following an 11-year-long political partnership.
Signs of Collaboration: Talks and Speculations
- Leaders from both parties have hinted at the possibility of re-alliance, although no formal announcement has been made.
- A recent three-hour-long meeting at Naveen Niwas, the residence of Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik, indicates discussions within the BJD regarding a potential alliance with the BJP.
- Odisha BJP leaders, including Union Home Minister Amit Shah and party chief JP Nadda, held discussions in New Delhi, suggesting engagement with Naveen Patnaik’s party regarding election matters.
Acknowledging Talks: Statements from Leaders
- BJD’s vice president and MLA Debi Prasad Mishra confirmed discussions about a possible alliance, emphasizing the priority of Odisha’s interests.
- Senior BJP leader and MP Jual Oram acknowledged discussions on the alliance, highlighting that the final decision rests with the party’s central leadership.
Seat Dynamics: Potential Implications
- Odisha comprises 21 Lok Sabha seats and 147 assembly constituencies, with the BJP and BJD holding significant positions.
- Speculation suggests a probable distribution of seats between the two parties, with the BJP likely to contest a majority of Lok Sabha seats and the BJD focusing on assembly seats.
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Exchanging Praises: Modi-Patnaik Mutual Appreciation
- Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik have recently lauded each other publicly.
- During PM Modi’s visit to Odisha, he commended Biju Patnaik’s contributions to the state and the nation, acknowledging his honour in paying homage to him.
Historical Context: Previous Alliances and Rifts
- The BJD-BJP alliance, initiated in 1998, saw significant electoral success before its dissolution in 2009 due to failed seat-sharing negotiations.
The potential re-alliance between the BJD and BJP in Odisha holds implications for the state’s political landscape.
As talks continue and speculations persist, the eventual decision will significantly influence the dynamics of both the upcoming elections and the broader political scenario in Odisha.
