BJD, BJP Trade Barbs Over Delhi Bungalow Allotted to Odisha CM

Odisha’s opposition Biju Janata Dal (BJD) and the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) on Wednesday sparred over the allotment of a bungalow to Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi in New Delhi, with the BJD alleging political control from the national capital and the BJP dismissing the claims as “electoral frustration.”

The controversy erupted after a bungalow at 2, Teen Murti Lane in the national capital was allotted to the Chief Minister. Both parties addressed separate press conferences during the day, trading charges over the decision.

BJD spokesperson Lenin Mohanty claimed that Majhi is the first Chief Minister of Odisha since the state’s formation to be allotted an official residence in Delhi. He alleged that the move would result in additional financial burden on the state exchequer due to maintenance and security expenses, and argued that it reflects increasing control of Odisha’s administration from Delhi.

Responding to the allegations, BJP leaders rejected the claims, terming them politically motivated and a reflection of the BJD’s frustration following electoral setbacks. The ruling party maintained that the allotment was in line with established norms and aimed at facilitating official work in the national capital.

The issue has added to the ongoing political sparring between the two parties in the state.