BJP asserts ability to rule Odisha independently amidst alliance uncertainty

New Delhi: In the midst of uncertainty surrounding the potential alliance between the Biju Janata Dal (BJD) and the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) in Odisha, Union Home Minister Amit Shah asserted today that the saffron party could secure governance in the state independently, without the need for any coalition, if it were to contest the forthcoming assembly elections solo.

Shah made these remarks while addressing at News 18’s Rising Bharat Summit. Responding to queries about a possible collaboration between the BJP and the BJD, Shah indicated that a decision on this matter is yet to be reached, with the BJP President slated to make the final call.

 Nevertheless, he expressed confidence in the BJP’s electoral prospects in Odisha, stating unequivocally that the party could clinch victory independently and assume governance in the state.

Highlighting the cooperative dynamic between the BJD and the BJP at the parliamentary level, Shah underscored the significance of issue-based support extended by the former to the latter in the interest of national welfare, characterizing this collaborative spirit as emblematic of democracy.

At the same event, VK Pandian, the Chairman of Odisha’s 5T initiative and a prominent figure within the BJD, on Tuesday asserted that the regional party possessed the capability to establish governance in the state without relying on the BJP.

However, Pandian also commended Prime Minister Narendra Modi and hinted at the potential for a collaboration between Modi and Odisha Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik, emphasizing a shared vision for a broader societal advancement, transcending political boundaries.