Congress Veteran Alleges Naveen Patnaik Under ‘House Arrest’ Amid Waqf Bill Uproar In Odisha

Bhubaneswar: As internal divisions within the Biju Janata Dal (BJD) deepen over its support for the controversial Waqf Amendment Bill, sharp criticism is emerging from opposition leaders in Odisha.

Senior Congress leader and former minister Narasingha Mishra launched a blistering attack on the BJD’s top leadership, questioning Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik’s role and authority within the party. Mishra, also a former Leader of the Opposition, alleged that Patnaik has lost control over his party and is now effectively under “house arrest.”

“The BJD is heading for disintegration and may soon cease to exist,” Mishra warned, suggesting that several party leaders are preparing to defect to the BJP. He speculated that these developments could lead to the formation of a unified or coalition cabinet shortly.

Mishra further claimed that Patnaik is being manipulated from behind the scenes by his chief advisor. “This isn’t the first time—Naveen is once again under house arrest,” he stated.

Accusing the BJD of compromising its independence, Mishra alleged that a clandestine deal had been struck with the BJP-led central government. He claimed that during a recent trip to Delhi, agreements were made in Patnaik’s name without his direct involvement.

Hinting at ongoing political realignments, Mishra suggested that significant changes may be underway in the state’s power structure—but stopped short of naming the key players involved.