Following the sudden collapse of its 24-year-old government, the BJJ party is grappling with concerns over losing control of municipal chairmanships. An urgent meeting was convened today at Shankh Bhavan with BJJ-backed municipal chairpersons to address potential threats of disloyalty within the party. Senior leaders Devi Mishra and Santhrapta Mishra were present, seeking a list of chairpersons facing possible motions of no confidence.
Critics, including some attendees, argue that the party’s reaction reflects political immaturity. One Bhadrak district chairman, speaking anonymously, expressed frustration over the party’s approach, questioning the effectiveness of an emergency meeting to preempt disloyalty.
Paradip Mayor Basant Biswal, who organized the meeting, claimed it was intended to address management issues within municipalities and NACs. He clarified that the gathering aimed to discuss problems with the Chief Minister and departmental ministers at a later date. Despite this, the meeting’s location and the presence of high-ranking party members raised suspicions about underlying fears within the BJJ.
The meeting highlighted growing discontent within the BJJ, particularly in light of recent leadership tensions. Senior BJJ leaders have expressed opposition to VK Pandian and Pranab Prakash Das, signaling internal strife. As the BJP’s influence in the state grows, there is increasing concern that the BJP may strategically capture more municipal positions. The BJJ’s internal conflicts and dissatisfaction with leadership have contributed to the party’s vulnerability.
Out of 106 NACs and municipal councils in the state, the BJP currently holds 16, Congress has 7, Independents control 9, and the BJJ governs the remainder. According to the Orissa Municipal Act-1950, a two-thirds majority of members can vote to remove an elected chairman after two years. With growing discontent and BJP’s strategic maneuvers, the BJJ faces significant challenges in retaining its municipal chairmanships.