BJD MP Debashish Samantaray made a provocative statement at a party program in Kujang, Paradip, hinting at a potential alliance with the Congress party if necessary. During his address to party workers, he discussed the current political landscape in the state.
In particular, Samantaray recounted a conversation with Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik, saying, “I told Naveen Babu to prepare for the by-election.” He claimed that seven BJP MLAs are likely to face disqualification, positioning BJD to strengthen its influence. “If 7 BJP MLAs come, we will reach 60. If needed, we will join hands with the Congress and form a new government,” he declared, urging a break from BJP dominance.
Furthermore, he criticized Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi, asserting that his leadership lacks independence and relies heavily on directives from Delhi. “The engine he received was neither diesel nor coal. We will oppose this government,” he added.
Additionally, the event featured former minister Pratap Jena and former MLAs Samvit Rautharai and Prashant Muduli, along with party leader Bapi Sarkhel.
In response to Samantaray’s comments, a BJP representative remarked, “The situation of BJD is like that of a fish without water.” Meanwhile, the Congress party has yet to issue an official response to Samantaray’s statements.