Arabinda, Bijoy Mohapatra’s son, joins BJD

Bhubaneswar: Arabinda Mohapatra, son of senior BJP leader Bijoy Mohapatra, has officially joined the Biju Janata Dal (BJD) today. The move marks a significant shift in the political landscape of Odisha, as Arabinda embraced the regional party at Naveen Niwas, the residence of BJD supremo Naveen Patnaik, in the presence of the party chief himself.
Arabinda Mohapatra, who had been actively involved in the Patkura Assembly constituency in Kendrapara district over the last two years, expressed his desire to serve the people of Patkura and contribute to the area’s development. After thorough discussions with the voters of Patkura, he decided to make the switch to BJD. Grateful for the opportunity, Arabinda thanked Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik for welcoming him into the party fold.
“Arbinda Babu…we welcome you to the BJD. Work hard for the party in Kendrapara District. You have my blessings & please thank also your father,” said the Chief Minister.
The decision comes as no small matter, considering the political legacy of the Mohapatra family in Odisha. Bijoy Mohapatra, Arabinda’s father, holds a formidable position in the state’s political history. He had been elected to the Odisha Legislative Assembly from the Patkura constituency an impressive four times, in the years 1980, 1985, 1990, and 1995. Moreover, Bijoy Mohapatra’s influence extended beyond his electoral victories; he was a prominent minister in the Biju Patnaik government during the early 1990s and is recognized as a founding member of the BJD.
Arabinda Mohapatra’s entry into the BJD reflects a strategic move, aligning himself with the ruling party of Odisha. His decision underscores the importance of local dynamics and the need for effective representation at the grassroots level. By joining the BJD, Arabinda aims to continue his family’s legacy of serving the people of Patkura and contributing to the overall progress of the region.