Dispelling any speculations regarding a potential alliance with the Biju Janata Dal (BJD) in Odisha, the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has unequivocally declared its intention to contest the upcoming Lok Sabha and Assembly elections in the state independently. The announcement was made by the party's state unit chief, Manmohan Samal, amidst swirling rumors suggesting a possible collaboration between the two parties for the polls.
Taking to X (formerly known as Twitter), Manmohan Samal conveyed the BJP's firm commitment to contest and secure victories in all 21 Lok Sabha seats and 147 Legislative Assembly seats in Odisha. Emphasizing the party's dedication to fulfilling the hopes, wishes, and aspirations of Odisha's 4.5 crore citizens under the visionary leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Samal reaffirmed the BJP's resolve to forge a developed India and a developed Odisha independently.
In addition, Samal highlighted concerns regarding the implementation of several welfare schemes initiated by the Modi government, citing issues hindering their effective delivery to the people of Odisha. He underscored the BJP's commitment to addressing these concerns and ensuring that the benefits of government initiatives reach the intended beneficiaries in the state.
It's worth noting that the BJP and BJD had previously formed an alliance for over a decade, spanning from 1998 to 2009, during which they contested three Lok Sabha and two assembly elections together. However, with the BJP's decision to contest the upcoming elections solo, the political landscape in Odisha is set to witness a renewed dynamic as parties prepare for electoral battles.
The electoral process in Odisha is scheduled to unfold in four phases, commencing from May 13, encompassing voting for all 21 Lok Sabha seats and the 147-member assembly concurrently.
At present, the BJP holds eight Lok Sabha seats and 23 assembly seats in Odisha, while the ruling BJD commands a formidable presence with 112 MLAs and 12 Lok Sabha MPs in the state's legislative bodies.
