Bhubaneswar, 22nd Sept 2025: The Biju Janata Dal (BJD) has received a double jolt as two senior leaders — former Rajya Sabha MP N. Bhaskar Rao and former Minister Lalbihari Himirika — have resigned from the party.
According to reports, both leaders decided to quit the party after discussions with their supporters.
N. Bhaskar Rao is considered a veteran leader and strong organizer within the BJD. Recognizing his influence, the party had nominated him to the Rajya Sabha in 1991. Later, he served again as a Rajya Sabha MP from 2016 to 2022.
However, he has now officially resigned from the primary membership of the BJD, expressing his dissatisfaction and moving away from the party.
Similarly, another senior leader, Lalbihari Himirika, has also resigned from the BJD. Both leaders have reportedly submitted their resignation letters to the BJD supremo.
Formation of New Forum: Biju Swabhiman Mancha
Following their resignation, both leaders are said to be involved in the formation of a new political forum named “Biju Swabhiman Mancha.”
This move indicates a possible new political alignment ahead of upcoming elections, signaling internal unrest within the BJD.