Political Turmoil: BJD MP's Alliance Remark Sparks Controversy

A statement by Biju Janata Dal (BJD) MP Debashish Samantray on a possible BJD-Congress alliance has triggered controversy. While the Congress dismisses the idea and the BJP mocks the notion, Samantray’s comments, captured in a viral video, reflect his personal view and not the party's official stance.

A statement by Biju Janata Dal (BJD) Member of Parliament Debashish Samantray on a potential alliance with the Congress has ignited a flurry of debates. The controversy began after a video showing Samantray discussing the alliance went viral.

The Congress promptly rebuffed the idea, while the ruling BJP dismissed it as impracticable daydreaming. The BJP has recently unseated the BJD after a 24-year-long tenure in Odisha. BJD vice-president Debi Prasad Mishra clarified that the comments were solely Samantray's personal opinion and do not reflect the party's stance.

Samantray, addressing party workers in Jagatsinghpur district, speculated on potential by-elections and suggested an alliance with Congress if needed. The BJP, which now governs with 78 out of 147 seats, remains skeptical of any such collaboration, with senior Congress leaders also ruling out the possibility.

(With inputs from agencies.)