Prafulla Mallik Hints At Quitting BJD; Pratap Jena Retorts With 'Opportunism' Jibe

Bhubaneswar: Though disenchantment within the Biju Janata Dal (BJD) is getting exposed by senior leaders at regular intervals, former Minister Prafulla Mallik on Friday rubbished talks of a parallel political outfit by “true BJD workers and supporters”.

“This is not the time to form any new outfit. It is important to put things in order in the present party as it continues to enjoy the trust of the people,” he said, a day after another ex-minister Amar Prasad Satpathy indicated possible internal rebellion in BJD. Drawing parallels with Hindu mythology, Satpathy said: “Who knows whether the person is still in Gopapura or already reached Mathura.”

Mallik, however, didn’t seem to favour rebellion or formation of any new outfit, like former MP N Bhaskar Rao and ex minister Lal Bihari Himirika have done by floating ‘Biju Swabhimaan Manch’.

He instead said he had suggested reviving the defunct political affairs committee (PAC) and disciplinary committee among other measures to strengthen the BJD. “While PAC was brought back, others suggestions were ignored. I have not held discussions or met anyone in the party over these issues,” said Mallik, who has in the past criticised the Naveen Patnaik-led regional outfit for deviating from its ideology and failing to effectively play the role of the main Opposition in the state.

The four-time legislator further reiterated that he was no longer associated with the organisational activities of the BJD and might distance himself further if the party continues to operate in this manner, ostensibly hinting at a possible resignation.

Reacting to Mallik’s statements, senior BJD leader branded the former minister as ‘the most opportunist leader of ia century’.

“Mallik was elected four times on a BJD ticket and Naveen Patnaik had campaigned for him. He was also made a minister and entrusted with key portfolios like Works and Mines. After BJD’s defeat in 2024 polls, he has started speaking against the very party that nurtured his political career. This clearly exposes his opportunism,” Jena remarked.

Stating that true commitment is proven in difficult times, he added that Mallik has utterly failed this test of loyalty.

Notably, Mallik’s statements came of a day when noted students’ leader Harishankar Rout quit the BJD expressing displeasure over the manner the party is being run.