Odisha’s BJD Faces Political Crisis: Can 79-Year-Old Naveen Patnaik Stop BJP’s ‘Operation Lotus’?

The Biju Janata Dal (BJD) in Odisha is facing growing political instability as the party struggles to retain its leaders and cadre in the face of mounting pressure from the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP). Following setbacks in recent elections, including the Nuapada bypoll, the exodus of district- and block-level leaders has intensified, raising questions about the party’s long-term viability.

BJP’s ‘Operation Lotus’ and Party Defections

BJD leaders allege that the BJP is running ‘Operation Lotus’, attempting to lure party members into its fold ahead of upcoming panchayat elections. According to party sources, state funds are being strategically withheld to push local leaders toward BJP allegiance. BJP MLA Vibhuti Pradhan has claimed that the BJD has been in crisis since its defeat in the 2024 assembly elections, and the party’s existence could be further threatened after the panchayat polls.

Recent developments have underscored these concerns. In Bhadrak district, several BJD leaders have joined the BJP. Additionally, multiple elected representatives from Talcher municipality have switched allegiance to the saffron party.

Nuapada Bypoll Woes

The Nuapada by-election further exposed BJD’s vulnerabilities. Despite personal campaigning by Naveen Patnaik, who faced health issues, the party slipped to third place, with the Congress finishing second. BJD’s vote share in the constituency fell from 33% to 18.07%, reflecting a sharp decline in popular support.

Leadership Challenges

The ongoing political churn has raised critical questions about the BJD’s succession planning. At 79 years old, Naveen Patnaik’s health constraints limit his ability to campaign extensively, and he has not formally named a successor. Earlier, he had empowered leaders such as Pyarimohan Mohapatra and later V.K. Pandian, but the party’s daily operations still hinge heavily on Patnaik’s leadership. Without a clear successor, the BJD risks further internal disarray and an inability to effectively counter the BJP’s political maneuvers.

Current Legislative Landscape

Following the 2024 Odisha assembly elections, the BJD holds 50 seats, while the BJP has 79 legislators. The opposition consists of 14 Congress MLAs, 3 independents, and 1 CPI(M) member. Analysts note that BJD’s weakened position in the legislature and internal instability make it increasingly difficult for the party to exert pressure on the state government or maintain cohesion among its ranks.

As Odisha heads into a critical phase of local elections, the pressing question remains: Who will lead the BJD through this turbulent period if Naveen Patnaik steps back?