Political Upheaval in Mayurbhanj as Mamata Mohanta Switches Allegiances

Mamata Mohanta, a former BJD Rajya Sabha MP, faced backlash from the Kudumi community after joining the BJP. Protesters burned her effigy, feeling betrayed by her switch. BJD leaders distanced themselves, claiming no involvement. Mohanta's move has sparked controversy, with BJP defending her action as a personal decision due to dissatisfaction within BJD.

In Mayurbhanj, widespread protests erupted on Thursday against Mamata Mohanta, who recently left the BJD and joined the BJP.

Led by BJD leaders, a significant number of Kudumi women congregated at Biju Patnaik Chhak in Rairangpur town and burned the effigy of the former Rajya Sabha MP, accusing her of betraying their community.

BJD leader Ratikant Parikshya clarified that his party had no involvement in the protests. Mohanta's switch to the BJP came a day after her resignation from Rajya Sabha and the BJD.

At a press conference in Bhubaneswar, BJD leader Sarojini Hembram accused Mohanta of betraying the people of Mayurbhanj and her community. BJD spokesperson Lenin Mohanty alleged that Mohanta had collaborated with the BJP during the Lok Sabha and state assembly elections.

State BJP leader Bisheswar Tudu refuted these claims, arguing that the BJP had no reason to lure Mohanta as it's already in power both in the state and the Centre. Meanwhile, BJP MLA Ashok Mohanty asserted that waning confidence in Naveen Patnaik was the real reason behind Mohanta's decision.

(With inputs from agencies.)