Overview
- Naveen Patnaik, 78, was unanimously re-elected as the Biju Janata Dal (BJD) president for a record ninth consecutive term, unopposed.
- Patnaik emphasized the need to counter BJP's 'false narratives,' urging party workers to strengthen their social media presence and utilize technology effectively.
- The BJD, now in opposition after 24 years of governance, is grappling with internal unrest, highlighted by the absence of several senior leaders during the re-election meeting.
- Patnaik described the party's 2000-2024 governance period as a 'golden age' and reaffirmed its commitment to Odisha's development and regional pride.
- The party faces challenges in rebuilding cohesion, addressing dissent, and adapting its strategy to regain voter trust after its 2024 electoral losses.