Political News: Bhubaneswar, (Reporterspen), Oct 16: Amid growing internal strife within the Biju Janata Dal (BJD) following its electoral defeat in Odisha, senior leader and former MLA Latika Pradhan has accused Ranjita Sahu, the party’s candidate from the Aska Lok Sabha seat, of being responsible for BJD’s poor performance in Ganjam district.
Pradhan, who contested from the Kabisuryanagar Assembly constituency in the last elections, alleged that Sahu acted as a “Bibhishan” by betraying the party and collaborating with the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP). According to Pradhan, Sahu’s actions contributed significantly to BJD’s losses in Kabisuryanagar and other Assembly segments under the Aska constituency.
Pradhan recently met BJD president Naveen Patnaik, urging him to take action against Sahu. She claimed that Sahu not only undermined BJD’s prospects during the election but continues to support BJP. Pradhan also asserted that Aska, a traditional BJD stronghold, had never gone to any other party until now, blaming Sahu for both the Lok Sabha and Assembly losses.
The former MLA further claimed to have evidence, including video recordings and statements from supporters, showing that Sahu’s actions during public meetings favored the BJP.
Responding to the allegations, Ranjita Sahu denied any wrongdoing, stating that she has been actively working to strengthen BJD in Ganjam. Sahu added that she will soon meet the party president to clarify the political situation and her efforts in the district.
