All Eyes on Naveen’s Next Move: Will He Stand Firm or Yield to Pressure?

Bhubaneswar: The political ripples triggered by the suspension of Patkura MLA Arvind Mohapatra from the Biju Janata Dal have placed party president Naveen Patnaik in an uncharacteristically delicate position. Rarely seen under pressure from within, Naveen now finds himself at a crossroads—whether to stand by his decision or reconsider it in the face of mounting resistance from Mohapatra’s supporters.

That pressure spilled dramatically into public view on Friday, when agitated BJD workers from Patkura stormed Sankha Bhawan, demanding the immediate withdrawal of the suspension order. The scene marked a rare moment of open dissent at the party headquarters, long known for its tightly controlled political choreography.

Senior leaders Debi Prasad Mishra and Pratap Jena stepped in to calm tempers, holding discussions with the protesting workers and seeking seven days’ time to address their demand. Their intervention, however, has only intensified speculation over whether the party leadership is preparing the ground for a possible rethink.

If Naveen Patnaik does reverse the suspension, it would mark an unprecedented moment in his nearly 28-year political career. Known for his steely resolve, the BJD supremo has never withdrawn an order of suspension, expulsion or sacking under pressure. While he has, on occasion, brought back estranged leaders into the party fold when political expediency demanded—often described as a “marriage of convenience”—a direct rollback of punitive action would be a first.

Arvind Mohapatra was suspended on January 15 on charges of corruption, anti-party activities and betrayal, as outlined by the party’s spokesperson. The young legislator, however, has publicly challenged the leadership to substantiate the allegations. Over the past 18 months, he has built a reputation for simplicity, diligence and a strong presence in the Assembly, earning him a following that is now visibly rallying behind him.

The episode also reopens old political wounds. Twenty-six years ago, on February 5, 2000, Naveen Patnaik had dealt a decisive blow to Arvind’s father, veteran leader Bijoy Mohapatra, by withdrawing his party ticket from the Patkura Assembly constituency at the last minute. That move effectively pushed Bijoy out of the BJD. Despite several attempts to reclaim political relevance and settle scores, Bijoy’s efforts were repeatedly thwarted—reportedly by Naveen’s then confidant Pyarimohan Mohapatra and, later, his trusted lieutenant V.K. Pandian.

Unlike his father, who pursued a long and measured political battle, Arvind has chosen a more direct confrontation. From the outset, he has questioned what he describes as the party’s authoritarian functioning, demanding accountability and answers from the top leadership.

Whether the young MLA sustains this combative stance or gradually allows the present anger to fade into silent conciliation remains to be seen. For now, the spotlight is firmly on Naveen Patnaik—waiting to see if Odisha’s most powerful political figure will hold the line or make room for an exception that could redefine his leadership style.