The Biju Janata Dal (BJD) has suspended three senior leaders, including the outspoken Women’s Wing General Secretary Shreemayee Mishra, for alleged “anti-party activities.”
The decision, formalised through an office order signed by BJD Vice President Pratap Jena, marks a decisive moment in the party’s internal power dynamics.
Mishra’s suspension follows a week of blistering social media posts where she indirectly targeted VK Pandian—Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik’s close aide—calling him a “fake saint” and accusing the party of favouritism. Her public grievances over being denied an election ticket despite years of service struck a chord with many, igniting debates around nepotism and succession politics.
Joining her in the disciplinary action are Subas Chandra Sai and Prabir Chandra Sai from Mayurbhanj district, both accused of undermining party interests. While the official order remains vague on specifics, the timing and tone suggest a zero-tolerance stance from the top leadership.
This move not only silences a prominent voice but also signals the BJD’s intent to tighten its ranks ahead of the upcoming elections. With Mishra’s rebellion now quelled, the party faces a new challenge: managing the optics of dissent in an era of digital outrage.
