Bhubaneswar: In the upcoming 2024 celebrations of Biju Janata Dal’s (BJD) 27th Foundation Day, the party strategically aligns with the forthcoming general elections. Since its establishment on December 26, 1997, BJD has not faced electoral defeat. The party’s objective revolves around strengthening its grip on voters by dedicating a sixth term to serving the state and its people under the leadership of Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik.
Founded by Naveen in 1997, naming it after his father, former Odisha Chief Minister Biju Patnaik, the party marked a fresh presence in politics. Naveen, over two decades, transformed from a novice to becoming Odisha’s face, steering the party to new heights while being a formidable force in the state.
BJD, since its inception, forged alliances with the BJP, ousting the Congress from power by forming a coalition government with the saffron party until 2009. However, post-2008 Kandhamal riots, Naveen severed ties with the BJP and contested both Lok Sabha and Assembly elections independently in 2009. Since then, BJD has maintained an undefeated streak, and Naveen has consecutively held the position of Odisha Chief Minister five times since 2000. Naveen’s government has transformed Odisha from a ‘sick’ state to an aspirational one. Post-Cyclone Fani, Odisha received international acclaim for its effective disaster management.
The success lies in Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik’s vision. He consistently emphasizes the party’s accountability to the people of Odisha, transforming BJD into a social movement. On the occasion of the party’s 25th Foundation Day, Naveen declared that the success of BJD was intertwined with the prosperity and strength of Odisha’s people.
He pledged the party’s commitment to work for the next 100 years with the support of all citizens. Naveen acknowledged the party workers’ selfless efforts, especially in gaining popularity among women and farmers. The undeniable truth remains that BJD activists have played a pivotal role in the party’s recent success, particularly in the government’s women-centric welfare programs over the past few years.