Biju Janata Dal (BJD), with a history rooted in opposition to the Congress, has declared its opposition to the no-confidence motion brought forth by the opposition parties against the Narendra Modi-led government. This decision is driven by two pivotal factors:
- Motion Unjustified: The BJD asserts that while the distressing events in Manipur have stirred emotions, a no-confidence motion is not the appropriate response. The party highlights that the government has already taken measures to address the situation, including dispatching a central team and unveiling relief initiatives.
- Historical Rivalry: Founded in 1997 by Naveen Patnaik, who broke away from the Congress, the BJD carries an enduring rivalry with the Congress party. This antagonism shapes the BJD’s stance, as the party avows its inability to support any motion proposed by the Congress.
During the debate on the no-confidence motion in the Lok Sabha, BJD MP Pinaki Misra stressed the importance of constructive suggestions from all parties. He emphasized that Naveen Patnaik, the party leader and Odisha’s Chief Minister, opts for prudent engagement rather than needless confrontation with the Central government. The BJD MP pointed out that continual friction with the Union government is unsustainable given the fiscal structure, ultimately not serving the state’s interests.
Misra further elaborated that the BJD’s origin was steeped in countering a corrupt Congress government, forming the bedrock of “anti-Congressism” within the party. Consequently, supporting a motion brought forth by the Congress contradicts this foundational principle.
In addressing the rationale behind opposing the motion, Misra underscored that the Congress’s motive appeared misguided, with an attempt to bring the Prime Minister to the House and discuss Manipur. He characterized this move as illogical, as the Prime Minister’s eloquence would likely lead to dismantling the Congress’s arguments. Misra also highlighted that the more pressing matter for women’s empowerment is the Women’s Reservation Bill, an issue for which the government should be held accountable.
The BJD’s decision to stand against the no-confidence motion is a hurdle for the opposition, as they require the support of 120 MPs for the motion to pass. While it remains uncertain whether the motion will succeed, the opposition parties must rally their forces and persuade fellow MPs to vote against the government if they wish to challenge the Modi administration.
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