Rourkela: Tensions within the BJP in Rourkela have intensified amid a growing political controversy, with Union Tribal Affairs Minister and senior BJP leader Jual Oram alleging a concerted campaign to defame him and undermine his position within the party.

Oram claimed that some people had been spending money in an attempt to damage his reputation, allegedly with the intention of politically sidelining him and securing a ministerial position at the Centre.

“I have built this party with my blood and sweat. I know this party well,” Oram said, asserting that he would strongly respond to anyone attempting to damage his reputation.

He alleged that some leaders who had joined the BJP from other political parties after spending money were now attempting to destabilise him and work towards his removal from the Union Cabinet.

Oram also made it clear that he intends to contest elections despite having earlier announced that he would not contest elections again.

“I had announced earlier that I would not contest elections anymore. But I challenge that I will contest elections,” he said, adding that he would identify those who had worked against him and take appropriate action within the political sphere.

Rourkela BJP controversy

The latest tensions come against the backdrop of a major controversy involving Rourkela BJP functionary Prakash Paswan, whose arrest was linked to a firearm seizure at the Rourkela Circuit House.

The BJP suspended Paswan on August 20, citing alleged indiscipline, misconduct and violation of party norms.

Paswan subsequently moved the Orissa High Court seeking anticipatory bail after reportedly evading authorities. He was later arrested by police in Samastipur, Bihar.

The developments have further intensified political tensions within the Rourkela BJP unit.

Reacting strongly to the situation, Oram alleged that a malicious political conspiracy and smear campaign was being carried out to tarnish his image and potentially remove him from the Union Cabinet.

The Union Minister said he had discussed the matter with Manas Mohanty, Odisha BJP State General Secretary, and indicated that the issue could be taken up with the party's central leadership if the matter was not resolved.

Oram also asserted that the BJP's central leadership would examine the issue and ensure justice. He emphasised his position as a tribal leader and warned that attempts to target or malign him would not go unanswered.

BJD attacks BJP

The controversy has drawn a sharp response from the opposition Biju Janata Dal (BJD).

BJD MLA Pramila Mallick said the BJP's internal differences had now become public, claiming that factionalism within the party had been continuing for a long time.

Mallick said Oram's remarks had raised questions about alleged financial transactions and the entry of leaders from other political parties into the BJP.

Referring to recent political developments surrounding the Rajya Sabha elections, she alleged that political horse-trading had taken place and claimed that public money had been wasted.

The latest exchange has brought renewed focus on internal differences within the BJP in Rourkela, with Oram's remarks signalling that the dispute could reach the party's central leadership if the situation remains unresolved.