Bhubaneswar, May 25 (BNP): In a significant political development in Odisha, Rajya Sabha MP Debashish Samantaray on Monday resigned from the primary membership of the Biju Janata Dal (BJD), citing “systematic humiliation” and marginalisation within the party.
In his resignation letter addressed to BJD president Naveen Patnaik, Samantaray said he had served the party with dedication and commitment over the years but felt increasingly sidelined in recent times.
“I have always dedicated myself to the interest of the party and worked with utmost conviction and commitment. However, I feel that of late, I have been systematically belittled in the party and that the party no longer requires my services,” Samantaray stated in his letter, describing the decision as difficult but taken in public interest.
Expressing gratitude to Naveen Patnaik, the Rajya Sabha MP acknowledged the opportunity given to him to represent Odisha in Parliament and serve the people of undivided Cuttack district. He said he would remain indebted to the BJD chief for entrusting him with responsibilities at the national level.
Samantaray’s resignation comes amid growing political speculation over his future course, with discussions intensifying in political circles about a possible shift in allegiance. While reports had earlier hinted at the possibility of his joining the BJP, no official confirmation has been made regarding his next political move.
A senior leader associated with the BJD for several years, Samantaray’s exit is expected to trigger political discussions in Odisha, particularly at a time when the state’s political landscape continues to witness shifting equations and realignments.