By Sunil Jena, Editor-in-Chief | The Politics Odia
The recent re-election of Manmohan Samal as Odisha BJP President for a historic fourth term was widely celebrated. Yet, a seemingly offhand remark by Cabinet Minister Suresh Pujari — that Samal would make the Odisha government “more dynamic” as Chief Minister — has sparked widespread political speculation. Is this a subtle power play? Or just a misplaced interpretation of party praise?
Let’s break down the facts and political undercurrents.
🔷 Manmohan Samal’s Re-election: A Show of Strength and Unity
On July 8, 2025, Samal was re-elected unopposed as Odisha BJP President. The massive welcome — joined by CM Mohan Charan Majhi, BJP ministers, MLAs, and hundreds of workers — symbolised party unity and recognition of Samal’s pivotal role in the BJP’s 2024 victory, which ended BJD’s 24-year reign in the state.
This event wasn’t about a power tussle. It was a strategic display of consolidation ahead of upcoming panchayat and municipal elections.
🔶 Suresh Pujari’s “Dynamic CM” Remark: Praise or Political Signal?
Minister Pujari stated during the felicitation ceremony that Manmohan Samal, as CM, would make the government more dynamic. Though some interpreted it as a critique of CM Mohan Majhi’s leadership, contextually, it appears to be an exaggerated form of praise.
Pujari has consistently backed Samal’s leadership and emphasised collective responsibility. There’s no concrete evidence that this remark was meant to undermine the current Chief Minister or signal internal unrest.
🔎 Is CM Mohan Majhi Underperforming?
There’s no substantial proof that Chief Minister Mohan Majhi is failing. Leading a first-time BJP majority government in Odisha, Majhi is navigating challenges inherited from decades of BJD rule.
While opposition leaders like Rahul Gandhi accuse the government of favouring corporate interests, especially Adani, these criticisms often lack clear evidence and serve more as political rhetoric than grounded allegations.
🏛️ Cabinet Vacancies and Governance Planning
As of July 2025, six ministerial berths remain vacant. Samal has assured that a cabinet expansion is imminent, likely delayed to accommodate regional and caste balances. He also confirmed that nominations for state-run boards and corporations are being finalised, hinting at a broader strategy to improve governance and party satisfaction.
⚠️ Internal Discontent and Discipline Issues
Isolated incidents — such as the BMC office assault case, which led to the suspension of five BJP members — have sparked concerns. However, Majhi’s response, along with Samal’s engagement with local leaders like Jagannath Pradhan, suggests a hands-on approach to crisis management.
There’s no evidence of a large-scale revolt or mass dissatisfaction within the BJP ranks. On the contrary, Samal’s unopposed re-election indicates broad internal support.
🔁 Leadership Change Speculation: Reality Check
Despite the buzz, there’s no credible indication of a leadership change. Majhi’s active participation in Samal’s nomination and public praise shows internal coordination. BJP leaders like Sambit Patra have been promoting the “Triple M” formula — Modi, Majhi, Manmohan — signalling cohesion, not competition.
🧠 Political Analysis: Manufactured Controversy?
This minor storm over Pujari’s words seems amplified by media speculation and opposition narratives, aiming to paint a picture of division within the BJP. In reality, the Odisha BJP appears focused on stability, governance delivery, and electoral preparation, not internal power struggles.
Samal and Majhi are functioning as a team, with the party committed to strengthening its base and governance in Odisha — a state that’s now central to the JP’s eastern India strategy.
🎯 Conclusion
While Minister Suresh Pujari’s statement triggered whispers of a leadership rift, a closer look suggests there’s no real fire behind the smoke. Odisha BJP remains firmly under Majhi’s leadership, with Samal playing the role of organiser-in-chief for the upcoming polls.
For a deeper analysis and real-time updates, watch Episode 52 of The Political Lens on The Politics Odia YouTube channel.
