Bhubaneswar, 19 January (H.S.)The suspension of Biju Janata Dal (BJD) MLAs Arvind Mohapatra and Sanatan Mahakud has intensified internal political tensions within the party, with expelled leader Shreemayee Mishra launching a fresh round of criticism against the top leadership.

On Monday, Mishra took to social media to question the party’s decision to suspend the two legislators on grounds of “discipline.” She alleged that the MLAs were being unfairly portrayed as corrupt and traitors, and raised concerns over who the “real traitor” within the party was.

In her posts, Mishra indirectly addressed BJD president Naveen Patnaik, claiming that he had become constrained by his own decisions. While acknowledging Patnaik’s stature as a senior and respected leader, she accused him of favouring non-Odia elements, which she said was repeatedly humiliating the people of Odisha.

She further alleged that the party’s leadership had effectively handed over control to individuals she described as a “fake ascetic,” thereby weakening an organisation built through the efforts of long-standing party workers. Mishra also questioned why the BJD had not publicly released the evidence or details against the suspended MLAs, if it intended to demonstrate fairness and transparency.

Additionally, Mishra accused the leadership of delegating key responsibilities to a Tamil couple, claiming that the move was aimed at undermining Odia self-respect. She described the development as “not politics,” but an attempt to cause distress to the people of Odisha.

The suspension row has sparked renewed debate within the BJD, highlighting growing discontent among sections of the party over its internal disciplinary actions and leadership decisions.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Monalisa Panda