Odisha’s dominant regional force, the Biju Janata Dal, is tightening its grip on internal dissent. Party president Naveen Patnaik suspended two sitting MLAs on charges of anti-party conduct, marking a bold step to cleanse the ranks before the next elections. The decision, effective immediately, bars the legislators from all party activities and privileges.

Details emerging from party headquarters paint a picture of calculated rebellion. The MLAs allegedly fraternized with rivals and aired grievances publicly, eroding BJD’s cohesive front. Despite internal counseling sessions, their behavior persisted, leading to this expulsion. Patnaik’s swift action has been praised by loyalists as essential for maintaining electoral focus.

This isn’t the first time BJD has wielded the suspension axe. Historically, such measures have weeded out troublemakers and bolstered the party’s resilience. Critics, however, question if this reflects deeper fractures within the organization post its 2024 assembly setback. The coming months will test whether this purge revitalizes or reveals more vulnerabilities.

As Odisha gears up for future polls, Patnaik’s maneuver positions BJD as a disciplined machine. The suspended leaders’ next moves—be it independent bids or rival defections—could reshape local dynamics. For now, the message from Naveen Niwas is unequivocal: toe the line or face the exit.