The state unit of Congress in Odisha is in turmoil following a series of incidents that have highlighted its internal disarray. From ink attacks on the Pradesh Congress Committee (PCC) chief to Congress Bhawan being locked for nine days, it appears the party is leaderless and struggling to find direction.
Nine days after its closure, Congress Bhawan reopened on Tuesday, but the atmosphere was unusually quiet, and the PCC office remained vacant. The party’s ambitious “nine-to-ninety” slogan for the general elections has fallen flat, leaving expelled leaders openly criticizing PCC Chief Sarat Pattanayak. Senior leader Jayadev Jena has indirectly called for Pattanayak’s resignation on moral grounds, and expelled leaders staged a demonstration in front of Congress Bhawan, burning his photograph.
“Sarat Pattanayak is a jinx for the Congress. He has been contesting unsuccessfully for the last 25 years. He fought elections while joining hands with the BJP and the BJD,” said suspended leader Prakash Mishra.
Meanwhile, Shreeyasmita Panda, another expelled leader, continued her sit-in protest, accusing Pattanayak of financial improprieties. “He is not coming to the office because he has received money from others,” said Panda.
Despite the chaos, senior Congress leader Bijay Patnaik condemned the ink attack on Pattanayak, emphasizing that such actions are unbecoming of a national party. “Ink attack on the PCC chief while he was in his office is a condemnable incident. These acts are not suitable at all as it is a national party. No one can paralyze it. The decisions as to who will be the PCC chief, when someone will be replaced etc. are taken by the AICC,” said Patnaik.
In response to the turmoil, Sarat Pattanayak stated, “The election was over on June 4. And I intimated everything to the AICC. The high command will now take whatever decision concerning the PCC chief.”
A renowned Political analyst commented on the party’s current state, suggesting that the Congress appears to be without leadership. “After the result declaration, he (Sarat Pattanayak) had requested the AICC to free him from the present responsibility. So, the party is now devoid of a head. The ongoing happenings are expected to come to an end after the joining of a new head.”
BJP’s Rising Momentum in Odisha
In stark contrast, the BJP in Odisha, under the leadership of Chief Minister Mohan Majhi, is showcasing a united front and strong governance. The recent revival of the Chief Minister’s Grievance Cell after 16 years has been lauded as a significant step towards bridging the gap between the government and the people. Majhi’s decisive actions and open-door policy are resonating well with the public, emphasizing transparency and accountability.
The BJP’s proactive approach is also evident in the preparation for the upcoming Rath Yatra in Puri. Law Minister Prithiviraj Harichandan, a close ally of CM Majhi, has been instrumental in ensuring the smooth conduct of the festival, prioritizing discipline and the welfare of women. His announcement to restrict VIP entries to maintain the sanctity of the event underscores the BJP’s commitment to upholding traditions while ensuring public convenience.
Harichandan’s leadership, along with the cohesive and forward-looking strategy of the BJP, is steadily gaining the confidence of the people of Odisha. The BJP’s focus on resolving long-standing issues, such as the Mahanadi river dispute, further highlights its commitment to effective governance and development.
Conclusion
As the Congress grapples with internal conflicts and a leadership vacuum, the BJP in Odisha continues to strengthen its position through decisive action and responsive governance. The contrasting fortunes of these two parties reflect the shifting political landscape in the state, with the BJP poised to consolidate its gains and lead Odisha towards a brighter future.