Bhubaneswar: Amid speculation of possible BJP-BJD ties ahead of general elections, both parties today hinted at forging an alliance after holding separate meetings in State and national Capitals respectively.
After a marathon meeting of senior leaders at Naveen Nivas, the BJD said that a discussion was held on an alliance. But, the party will take the decision which will be apt for Odisha, said senior BJD leader Debi Mishra.
“The BJD has been working for the development of Odisha. Under the leadership of CM Naveen Patnaik, the State has reached the pinnacle of success. The party will do whatever necessary for the interest of the State,” said Mishra.
Echoing a similar voice, BJD general secretary and MLA Arun Sahoo said that BJD is working for the interest of the State. The party will take the right decision at the right time, Sahoo said after coming out of the CM’s residence.
Meanwhile, the BJD also issued a press release over the meeting at Naveen Nivas. “An extensive discussion was held under the leadership of BJD President and CM Naveen Patnaik with the senior leaders of the Party today regarding the strategy of the upcoming Lok Sabha and Vidhan Sabha elections. In the discussions, it was resolved that since by 2036, Odisha will complete 100 years of its statehood and BID and CM has major milestones to be achieved by this time, therefore Biju Janata Dal will do everything towards this In the greater Interests of the people of Odisha and the State.” the release stated.
On the other hand, BJP MP and former Union Minister Jual Oram also made a statement that also fueled the talk of an alliance.
“Discussion was held on various matters including election and alliance in Odisha. We have proposed to fight alone. But, the central leaders will decide on alliance,” said Oram who was a part of the BJP’s crucial meeting in New Delhi today.
The BJP meeting was attended by Odisha unit president Manmohan Samal, Union Minister Dharmendra Pradhan, spokesperson Sambit Patra and some others. Home Minister Amit Shah was also present in the meeting and discussed with the State leaders.
Similarly, the Biju Janata Dal (BJD) held the meeting under the chairmanship of party president and Chief Minister Naveen Patanaik at his residence where 20 top leaders including party organisational secretary Pranab Prakash Das, MP Manas Mangraj, Sasmit Patra, Ministers Tukuni Sahoo, Ashok Panda, Ranendra Pratap Swain, Atanu Sabyasachi Nayak, Snehangini Chhuria, Usha Devi, Bikrama Keshari Arukha, Prasanna Acharya, Priti Ranjan Ghadai, Debi Mishra, Arun Sahoo and Jagannath Saraka were present.
