The Septa: What led to dissociation of BJP-BJD alliance? 7 points

The Septa: Despite Prime Minister Modi fostering good relations with Patnaik, speculation about the possibility of a formal alliance gained traction following the PM's praise of the CM as a "Lokpriya (people's leader)" during their joint appearance at an event in Odisha on March 5. However, after extensive discussions held in both Bhubaneswar and Delhi, the BJD and BJP have ultimately decided against forming an alliance.

Odisha BJP president Manmohan Samal announced on Friday that the party would independently contest all 21 Lok Sabha constituencies and 147 Assembly seats in the upcoming simultaneous elections. Here is a breakdown of events that boiled down to the 'breakdown' of the alliance between the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and the Biju Janata Dal (Dal):

1. Recent Talks

The central BJP showed openness to an alliance with the BJD, despite initial resistance from the state unit. The BJP's significant growth in Odisha has positioned it as the clear second party, with the Congress trailing far behind. Odisha BJP leaders emphasized the party's ability to hold its ground in the opposition space without forming an alliance.

2. Alliance talks breakdown

The discussions ultimately collapsed over the contentious issue of sharing Assembly seats. The BJD insisted on contesting no fewer than 100 out of 147 Assembly seats, while the BJP proposed around 57 seats. Additionally, disagreement persisted over a post-election power-sharing arrangement. The BJP's intention to field rebel BJD leaders further strained relations.

3. Announcement of no alliance

Recent meetings held by Samal with central leaders culminated in the announcement that there would be no alliance, conveyed through a post on social media platform X. Samal affirmed the BJP's commitment to fight under Prime Minister Narendra Modi's leadership to address the aspirations of Odisha's 4.5 crore residents. He cited the need to ensure effective implementation of Modi government's welfare programs at the grassroots level in Odisha.

4. Political shifts

Some BJP insiders noted changes following Pandian's assumption of control over the state administration, suggesting a shift in dynamics. Pandian's efforts to secure an alliance with the BJP were perceived as a move to bolster his position within the party.

5. Response from BJP leadership

Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan, a prominent BJP figure in Odisha, endorsed Samal's statement. This was followed by expressions of relief and optimism from state BJP leaders, anticipating a boost in morale among party workers. Amit Shah hinted at significant electoral gains for the BJP in Odisha, with or without an alliance, during a subsequent event.

6. Speculation on formal alliance

Despite cordial relations between PM Modi, Union Home Minister Amit Shah, and CM Patnaik, speculation regarding a formal alliance gained momentum after PM Modi's praise for Patnaik as "Lokpriya (people’s leader)" during an event in Odisha on March 5.

7. Pandian's Remarks

Pandian's comments at a news event on March 19 hinted at discord in the alliance talks. He suggested that neither CM Patnaik nor PM Modi relied on an alliance to maintain power. Instead, he emphasized their shared commitment to a broader cause beyond politics, marking his first public remarks on the matter.