Vested interests trying to create rift in BJD: Panda

Bhubaneswar: A day after an op-ed that created flutter within the ruling party, BJD MP Baijayant Jay Panda on Wednesday said some vested interests are trying to create a rift in the regional party.

He also urged the party president for urgent steps to check such attempts.

“Vested interests trying to distort, but I want NP (CM Naveen Patnaik) to recognize current challenges, take urgent steps & rediscover BJD’s original strengths,” Panda tweeted.

Later, the Kendrapara MP clarified that his article published in an Odia newspaper was an appeal to introspect and strengthen the party.

However, the party leaders criticized the BJD MP for going to media instead of airing his grievance before the party president.

“He (Panda) should not give statements about the party in public rather meet the Chief Minister directly to discuss whatever he wants to. He is an experienced and four-time MP. His views should not be treated casually. His comments/statements could be for the benefit of the party,” said senior BJD leader and Excise minister Damodar Rout.

Party spokesperson Sameer Dash said party president and Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik is well aware of the entire episode and he will take the appropriate decision at the right time.