Opinion: Why Is Naveen Patnaik’s BJD Keen To Rejoin BJP-led NDA?

Speculation abounds regarding the potential return of the Biju Janata Dal (BJD) to the National Democratic Alliance (NDA) fold ahead of the 2024 general elections. The BJP and the BJD, erstwhile alliance partners for 11 years from 1998 to 2009, parted ways prior to the 2009 general elections due to disagreements over seat-sharing.

The recent press release from the BJD has ignited this speculation, stating, “In the discussions, it was resolved that since by 2036, Odisha will complete 100 years of its statehood”, the BJD would do everything towards this in the greater interest of the people of the state.

Since the split, the BJD has consolidated its position in the state, making gains in both the Vidhan Sabha and the Lok Sabha elections, albeit ceding some ground to the BJP in 2019.While it’s evident why the BJP would seek the support of the BJD to realise its ‘Mission 400’ for the NDA, it remains unclear why the latter would seek a tie-up with the BJP at this juncture. Surveys indicate a close contest in Odisha, with the BJD projected to win 11 seats and the BJP 10 (CNX). Additionally, the BJD faces no significant anti-incumbency sentiment in the state elections.