BJD In Turmoil Over Sasmit Patra's Vote On Waqf Bill: Leaders Demand Clarity On 'Policy Shift'

Bhubaneshwar: A storm is brewing within the Biju Janata Dal (BJD) after Rajya Sabha MP Sasmit Patra voted in favour of the controversial Waqf Amendment Bill, raising eyebrows over a possible shift in the party’s equidistant stance on communal matters. The vote has triggered widespread discontent among senior leaders, demanding an investigation into the deviation from party policy.

Senior leader Badri Patra openly questioned Sasmit’s authority to cast such a vote, suggesting internal manipulation. “The party had decided to oppose the bill. How did this change at the last moment? Someone played a game,we need to find out who,” he said.

He also pointed out that of BJD’s seven MPs, one opposed, five supported, and one abstained from voting—despite clear instructions reportedly issued by party president Naveen Patnaik. Notably, no official whip was issued.

This is not the first sign of dissent. Former minister Prafulla Samal had written to Naveen Patnaik seeking disciplinary action and a review of the incident.

The controversy strikes at the heart of BJD’s ideological positioning, with Badri Patra warning of a moral crisis. “Sasmit Patra cannot unilaterally alter the party line. His move has damaged the party’s credibility,” he said.

While neither Sasmit nor the central leadership has responded officially, sources suggest Naveen Patnaik is seriously examining the matter. A formal probe may soon be initiated to uncover whether Sasmit acted independently or under covert guidance.

As tensions rise and leaders voice concerns openly, the incident has exposed rifts within the BJD, challenging its long-held image of disciplined, balanced politics.