Why A Joint Presser By Akhilesh Yadav And Srikant Jena Has Spooked Congress
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Many political observers believe that the SP sees a strategic opening amid a divided Congress, internal strife within the BJD, and the ruling BJP’s still-nascent influence in Odisha
Akhilesh Yadav stated that uniting leaders like Srikant Jena could bolster the fight for social justice. (X@yadavakhilesh)
A recent event in Bhubaneswar has caused a stir within the Congress party. Senior Congress leader Srikant Jena and Samajwadi Party (SP) chief Akhilesh Yadav were seen together on the same stage, holding a press conference where they discussed social justice and exchanged praises. This public appearance has reportedly not gone unnoticed by the Odisha unit of the Congress.
While a meeting between old friends might not typically raise eyebrows, the decision to call a press conference and make joint statements has led to speculation, especially as Jena has been vocal about feeling sidelined within the party since February 2025 when junior leader Bhakta Charan Das was appointed state president. Despite his dissatisfaction, Jena has maintained, “I am not going anywhere.”
Akhilesh Yadav’s remarks added further intrigue. He stated that uniting leaders like Jena could bolster the fight for social justice. Many political experts have suggested that the SP chief sees potential in Jena and possibly an opportunity to establish a foothold in Odisha.
Jena attempted to downplay the significance of the meeting, explaining that Akhilesh was in Puri for a pilgrimage, and their press conference was coincidental. However, many within the Congress remain sceptical of this explanation.
The situation is particularly precarious for the Odisha Congress, which is already in a weakened state with little organisational strength. Jena’s dissatisfaction and his public association with the SP chief represent a significant setback for the party.
A senior Congress leader from Delhi acknowledged the importance of retaining Jena, indicating that the party intends to speak with him. However, many political commentators are of the view that meaningful retention requires offering Jena both a significant role and recognition within the party.
One Odisha Congress MLA bluntly stated that Jena should be given a prominent role in the All India Congress Committee (AICC) to prevent his potential departure. Many are of the view that while the SP might currently be an ally, political considerations often drive decisions, and there is credible concern that Jena could leave.
SP sources have indicated their interest in expanding into Odisha and have been in touch with some Biju Janata Dal (BJD) leaders. Many political pundits have suggested that with the Congress divided, the BJD facing internal conflicts, and the BJP’s influence still relatively new, the SP sees a strategic opportunity.
Several experts have claimed that the SP aims to establish a presence where other parties are struggling, and an experienced leader like Jena could be pivotal. Jena, who returned to the party in 2024 after being expelled, but subsequently lost the election, remains a significant player. Many political analysts are of the view that his association with Akhilesh Yadav suggests more than just an old friendship; it hints at broader political manoeuvring.
- Location :
Odisha (Orissa), India, India
