Champua MLA Sanatan Mahakud was on Thursday reprimanded by BJD supremo and Leader of Opposition Naveen Patnaik for missing the party’s legislature meeting.
He asked him if he is joining the BJP.
Patnaik also engaged in a discussion with Mahakud while entering the State Legislative Assembly ahead of the budget session on Thursday.
Patnaik queried why Mahakud was absent from the BJD legislators’ meeting held on Wednesday. Mahakud explained that he was unwell.
Listening to this, Naveen again asked, “Arey, are you leaning towards BJP?”
Naveen’s question to Mahakud confirmed that Naveen is aware that several BJD leaders are leaning towards the BJP.
Besides, this exchange has sparked widespread discussions regarding Mahakud’s political leanings.
Notably, several BJD leaders, including two Members of the Rajya Sabha and a number of panchayat committee chiefs, have recently shifted their allegiance to the BJP.
A video clip has resurfaced from an event in Champua, conducted in December last year, depicting a moment of camaraderie between Mahakud and Chief Minister Mohan Majhi.
In the footage, Mahakud is seen offering cake to Majhi, who humorously reciprocates by playfully spreading some on Mahakud’s cheek.
In response Mahakud said, “Mohan Majhi is the Chief Minister of the State. He is not the Chief Minister of BJP. Hence, it’s my right to go near him for some developmental activities of our district,” said Mahakud.
Senior BJP leader Jayanarayan Mishra said that whenever the BJP blows a whistle, BJD will disintegrate.
