BJP, BJD Surrender to Independent MLA Liku Sahoo in Jajpur

Jajpur, once considered a stronghold of the Biju Janata Dal (BJD), is witnessing a unique political situation where both the BJD and the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) appear to be facing challenges, while an Independent MLA has emerged as a dominant force in the district’s political landscape.

During the tenure of the Naveen Patnaik-led government, former minister and senior BJD leader Pranab Prakash Das, popularly known as Bobby Das, was regarded as one of the most influential political figures in Jajpur. He exercised considerable control over the district’s political affairs and was seen as the party’s strongest leader in the region.

However, the political equation changed ahead of the 2024 elections when the BJD fielded Bobby Das from the Sambalpur Lok Sabha constituency. Contesting from a seat considered difficult for the party, Bobby Das was defeated by senior BJP leader Dharmendra Pradhan by a significant margin. Political observers believe his shift from Jajpur weakened the BJD’s organisational structure in the district.

Despite this setback, the BJD managed to win three of the seven Assembly constituencies in Jajpur district. The BJP also secured three Assembly seats, while one constituency elected an Independent candidate.

The rise of Independent MLA Himanshu Sekhar Sahoo has since become one of the most discussed developments in Jajpur politics. Leaders from both the BJD and BJP reportedly acknowledge his growing influence. According to discussions within political circles, Himanshu Sekhar Sahoo is now seen as a key figure whose role extends beyond his own constituency and impacts district-level politics.

Some BJD leaders have also claimed that Bobby Das has developed close political ties with Liku Sahoo. They allege that the former minister now maintains a cooperative relationship with the Independent legislator, a development that has altered political equations within the district.

The changing power dynamics were reportedly visible during the recent Local Self-Government Day celebrations organised by the Jajpur Municipality, which is controlled by the BJD. Bobby Das’s brother, Lal Das, had earlier served as the chairman of the municipality. Although district minister Pradeep Kumar Bal Samanta, popularly known as Tutu Bal Samanta, was not named in the official invitation card for the programme, he attended the event after reportedly receiving a call from Bobby Das. The incident triggered discussions about the prevailing political influence within the district.

Flood relief management during the recent floods has also become a subject of political debate. Local discussions suggest that BJP legislators depended heavily on the Independent MLA regarding relief-related matters, while BJD MLAs reportedly received adequate relief support. These perceptions have contributed to criticism of the BJP’s handling of relief operations in parts of the district.

Within the BJD, some leaders have expressed concern over the alleged political understanding between Bobby Das and Himanshu Sekhar Sahoo. They argue that despite several issues affecting the district, the opposition has not mounted a strong campaign against the BJP government. According to them, this has weakened the party’s ability to corner the ruling establishment on local matters.

Former Dharmasala MLA Jitu Balabantaray has occasionally criticised the BJP MLA from the constituency. However, political observers note that he no longer appears to enjoy the same level of support from Bobby Das that he once did.

Several senior BJD leaders in the district are also facing their own political challenges. Binjharpur MLA Pramila Mallik is reportedly dealing with age-related health concerns. Bari MLA Biswaranjan Mallick continues to be regarded as a close associate of Bobby Das, while Jajpur MLA Sujata Sahu is also considered one of his loyal supporters.

In Korei, political circles are discussing reports that the local MLA has maintained an understanding with the Independent MLA. The speculation comes amid the growing political activity of former Korei MLA and BJD leader Danny Ghadai, who is believed to be preparing for a stronger role in the constituency.

Political observers say the situation in Jajpur has created an unusual power structure. While BJP legislators are perceived to have limited influence in certain matters and the BJD appears to be struggling to regain its former dominance, much of the district’s political discourse currently revolves around the influence of Independent MLA Himanshu Sekhar Sahoo. As political alignments continue to evolve, Jajpur remains one of the most closely watched districts in Odisha’s political landscape.