Bhubaneswar: In a notable political development within Odisha’s primary opposition ranks, senior BJD lawmaker Shri Kalikesh Narayan Singh Deo has reaffirmed his deep-seated loyalty to party supremo Shri Naveen Patnaik, describing their bond as an emotional connection rather than just a political one.
This statement follows a high-profile meeting between the two leaders at Naveen Niwas, which Shri Singh Deo characterized as a routine check-in. During the interaction, the Bolangir MLA reportedly briefed Shri Patnaik on the ground realities in Bolangir, specifically highlighting rising public and farmer resentment regarding the current government’s policy of deducting bonuses on paddy procurement exceeding 150 quintals.
The timing of this meeting carries weight as the Biju Janata Dal navigates its role in the opposition. Shri Singh Deo’s emphasis on organizational growth in Western Odisha arrives amidst a growing chorus of support for his leadership from within his own party.
Senior legislators like Shri Dibya Shankar Mishra and Shri Debesh Acharya have recently been vocal in their praise for Shri Singh Deo, suggesting a shift where the party’s veterans are looking toward experienced hands to spearhead the BJD’s resurgence in the hinterlands. By harping on Shri Singh Deo’s capabilities, Shri Mishra and Shri Acharya are effectively positioning him as a central figure in the party’s strategy to reclaim influence in the Bolangir and Sambalpur regions.
This internal momentum suggests a concerted effort by the BJD to consolidate its base by leveraging local leadership that resonates with the agrarian community.
While Shri Singh Deo maintains that his visit was a standard courtesy call, the focus on farmer grievances indicates that the party is sharpening its tools for a broader political offensive. By aligning his emotional commitment to Shri Patnaik with a clear-eyed focus on grassroots organizational challenges, Shri Singh Deo is bridging the gap between the party’s traditional hierarchy and its future operational needs.