Bhubaneswar | Jan 16, 2026

Odisha Chief Minister and Biju Janata Dal (BJD) leader Naveen Patnaik has suspended two party legislators, Arvind Sanatan Mahakud and Arabinda Mahapatra, citing alleged anti-party activities, officials said on Thursday.

Mahakud, a two-time assembly member and reportedly the state’s wealthiest legislator, faced suspension months after Patnaik questioned him in February last year for skipping a legislature party meeting. During that interaction, the chief minister reportedly asked whether Mahakud had come to meet CM Mohan Majhi and criticised the previous BJD government at a public event in Majhi’s presence, raising concerns over his loyalty.

Arabinda Mahapatra’s suspension appears linked to his father, Bijay Mahapatra, and his alleged meetings with dissident BJD leaders to explore forming a third political front, following the party’s defeat after 24 years in power in Odisha in 2024.

Party sources said the move serves as a clear warning to other BJD members who may be challenging Patnaik’s leadership. Dibya Shankar Mishra, a senior BJD leader, underscored that decisions on disciplinary action are based on “careful deliberation and solid evidence,” indicating the suspended lawmakers were found involved in anti-party activities.

Expressing surprise, Mahapatra said he had not made any statements against the party or created difficulties for the leadership. “I do not know what anti-party activities I have done. I will have to discuss with the party leadership to find out the exact reasons,” he said.

The suspensions highlight the party chief’s efforts to consolidate authority within the BJD and send a message to potential dissenters ahead of upcoming political engagements.