Pandian not involved in party matters, says Naveen amid BJD rift

Bhubaneswar, April 9: Amid rising tensions within the Biju Janata Dal (BJD) over the party’s stance on the Waqf Bill, party president Naveen Patnaik broke his silence on Wednesday, voicing support for V K Pandian and firmly distancing him from current party matters.

Speaking to the media, the former Chief Minister praised Pandian’s past contributions, stating, “Shri Karthikeyan Pandian has made significant contributions to both the state and the party. He should not be held responsible or criticised for any recent developments.”

Patnaik clarified that Pandian had stepped away from political activities over ten months ago and has had no involvement in party affairs since.

The remarks come at a time when internal disagreements have surfaced, with several BJD leaders openly criticising Pandian in connection with the controversy surrounding the Waqf Bill vote.

Patnaik also took a strong stand against informal gatherings by party members, particularly those held in hotels. “I do not approve of large meetings being organised in hotels by our party members. We have a designated party office, Sankha Bhawan, which is spacious and meant for such purposes. Members have been instructed to hold their meetings there,” he said.

Additionally, the BJD leader addressed the activities of former MLA Prabhat Tripathy, emphasizing that he is no longer associated with the party. “Prabhat Tripathy was expelled from the BJD several years ago following his indictment in a chit fund case, during which he also served jail time. I want to make it clear once again—he is not a part of our party,” Patnaik stated.