Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma declared that Odisha’s ruling Biju Janata Dal (BJD) will soon become “history” and that the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) is poised to rule the state for the next 50 years. Speaking at a party event in Bhubaneswar, Sarma’s remarks have ignited a heated political debate, drawing sharp reactions from both the BJD and opposition parties.
Sarma’s Statement and Context
Himanta Biswa Sarma, known for his fiery oratory and political acumen, made the statement during a BJP workers’ meet in Odisha. He praised the BJP’s growing presence in the state and claimed that the party’s vision and policies resonate deeply with the people.
“The days of BJD are numbered. Their politics of appeasement and lack of development will soon be rejected by the people of Odisha. BJP will not only emerge victorious in the next election but will rule the state for the next 50 years,” Sarma declared.
This assertion comes at a time when the BJP has been intensifying its efforts to expand its footprint in Odisha, a state where the BJD, under the leadership of Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik, has been in power for over two decades.
Reactions from BJD
Unsurprisingly, the BJD dismissed Sarma’s claims as “delusional” and accused the BJP of resorting to baseless rhetoric. BJD spokesperson Pratap Keshari Deb stated, “The people of Odisha have trusted Naveen Patnaik’s leadership for over 20 years because of his unwavering focus on development and welfare. Himanta Biswa Sarma’s comments are nothing but empty words.”
The BJD highlighted the state’s achievements under Patnaik’s leadership, including transformative initiatives in healthcare, education, and disaster management, which have earned widespread recognition.
Opposition Criticism
Opposition parties, including the Congress, also criticized Sarma’s remarks, accusing him of undermining democratic values. Odisha Congress leader Sarat Pattanayak said, “No party has a permanent claim to power in a democracy. Himanta Biswa Sarma’s statement is not just arrogant but also reflects the BJP’s disdain for democratic principles.”
Pattanayak further questioned the BJP’s track record in Assam and other states, arguing that its policies have failed to address key issues like unemployment and inflation.
BJP’s Strategy in Odisha
The BJP’s ambition to dethrone the BJD is evident in its recent political maneuvers. The party has been aggressively targeting Odisha through high-profile visits by national leaders, grassroots campaigns, and promises of greater central assistance. Union Home Minister Amit Shah and BJP President J.P. Nadda have both visited the state multiple times in recent months, signaling the party’s commitment to making inroads.
The BJP’s focus areas include tribal welfare, youth employment, and infrastructure development—issues it believes are neglected by the BJD. Analysts suggest that the BJP’s strategy is to consolidate its support base in western Odisha and coastal regions, where the party has shown steady growth in recent elections.
Ground Realities and Challenges
While the BJP’s confidence is evident, political analysts caution against underestimating the BJD’s resilience. Naveen Patnaik remains one of the most popular leaders in India, and his government’s pro-poor initiatives, such as the KALIA scheme for farmers and Mission Shakti for women empowerment, have cemented his support among key voter groups.
Moreover, the BJP faces the challenge of countering the BJD’s well-entrenched organizational network and its image as a regional party that prioritizes Odisha’s interests. The BJP’s attempts to nationalize state politics may not resonate with all voters, particularly those who view the BJD as a bulwark against central interference.
The Road Ahead
As Odisha gears up for its next assembly elections, the battle lines between the BJD and BJP are becoming increasingly clear. While Himanta Biswa Sarma’s bold prediction has certainly grabbed headlines, its realization will depend on the BJP’s ability to translate rhetoric into tangible electoral gains.
For the BJD, the challenge lies in countering anti-incumbency and retaining its image as a party of the people. Naveen Patnaik’s leadership will be crucial in navigating these challenges and ensuring the BJD’s continued dominance.
Ultimately, the political landscape in Odisha is poised for an intense contest, with both parties leaving no stone unturned. Whether the BJP can unseat the BJD or whether Naveen Patnaik will script yet another victory remains to be seen. For now, Sarma’s remarks have set the stage for what promises to be a high-stakes electoral battle.