In a major announcement, BJP’s Odisha state President Manmohan Samal declared that the party will contest the upcoming Lok Sabha and Assembly elections alone, rejecting any alliance with the ruling BJD. Samal emphasized the need for a “double-engine” government for accelerated growth in the state.
Samal expressed gratitude towards the BJD government for supporting the Narendra Modi government at the Centre on national issues but noted the disagreements with the ruling party on various matters concerning the welfare of the people of Odisha. He highlighted the importance of a dual leadership for effective governance and development in the state.
The decision to go solo in the elections comes after failed negotiations with the BJD over key issues related to the dignity and pride of the Odia people. Samal emphasized the need for welfare programs to reach the grassroots level to benefit the poor effectively, citing the importance of governance at both the state and central levels for comprehensive growth.
Political observers suggested that the BJP’s move to contest independently was influenced by the party’s ground-level situation and its potential for significant gains in seats in both the Assembly and Lok Sabha elections. With the leadership’s confidence in securing a substantial vote share, the BJP aims to make a strong impact in Odisha’s political landscape in the upcoming polls.
