Bhubaneswar: Hectic political activities were reported in Odisha tonight amidst the rumours and speculations that the ruling Biju Janata Dal (BJD) in Odisha is heading for a split.

 

While Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik is away in London, BJD strategist Pyari Mohan Mohapatra called for a meeting of Ministers and MLAs close to him at his residence tonight to discuss some important issues.

 

Local media reports revealed that at least four Ministers and over 25 MLAs are attending the meeting. It was alleged that Pyari's supporters have launched a signature campaign and even booked a leading Hotel in Odisha to accommodate 64 MLAs.

 

There are indications that Pyari is all set to take the centrestage and may try show his strength, by splitting the BJD. However, the MLAs close to him are tightlipped. Although they told the media that they were discussing about petrol price hike and the proposed bandh on May 31, the message is loud and clear that all is not well within the BJD.

 

To counter any move of Pyari Mohan Mohapatra, supporters of Naveen Patnaik, including Dr. Damodar Rout, Prafulla Ghadei, Prasanna Acharya, Debi Mishra and Ashok Panda are meeting at the Naveen Nivas to discuss their strategy. Both camps are holding the meets and may open their cards tonight or tomorrow morning.