Not part of INDIA bloc, BJD issues long clarification
The Biju Janata Dal (BJD) has clarified that it remains independent of the INDIA bloc despite its MPs joining an opposition protest march. The party stated its participation was focused on concerns regarding electoral roll revisions rather than a formal political alliance.
Why it matters
This highlights the shifting political dynamics in Odisha and the BJD's attempt to maintain its long-standing policy of equidistance from both the Congress and the BJP.
The Biju Janata Dal (BJD) on Tuesday (October 6, 2026) clarified that it was not part of the INDIA bloc, despite its Rajya Sabha MPs joining the Opposition alliance’s protest march against the alleged arbitrary actions of Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar in connection with the special intensive revision (SIR) of electoral rolls.
The clarification came after BJD MPs were seen alongside Congress leaders, actively participating in the protest over alleged irregularities in the electoral roll revision exercise, in New Delhi. It was the first time that BJD and Congress leaders were seen sharing a platform in a public political demonstration, drawing considerable attention.
Back in Odisha, a Congress leader welcomed former Chief Minister and BJD president Naveen Patnaik’s “decision” to join the protest alongside INDIA bloc leaders and urged him to formally join the Opposition alliance.
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