Biju Janata Dal
Biju Janata Dal (BJD), founded in 1997, is a major political party in India. Explore its latest activities, statements, and role in the current political landscape.
Current vs. Opposition

Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP)
Ruling Party (National)
Biju Janata Dal (BJD)
Opposition Party
History & Achievements
Odia regionalism; secularism; welfarism
Governed Odisha continuously from 2000 to 2024
History
The Biju Janata Dal (BJD) was founded on 26 December 1997 by Naveen Patnaik, following the death of his father and former Odisha Chief Minister Biju Patnaik. The party was established to carry forward Biju Patnaik's political legacy and promote Odisha's regional interests.
The BJD entered electoral politics with a strong emphasis on Odisha's identity, regional development, social welfare and administrative governance. In the 2000 Odisha Assembly election, the party emerged as a major political force and formed the State government in alliance with the BJP, with Naveen Patnaik becoming Chief Minister.
The BJD subsequently won successive Odisha Assembly elections in 2004, 2009, 2014 and 2019, allowing Naveen Patnaik to remain Chief Minister for approximately 24 years. During this period, the party established a strong organisational presence across the State.
The BJD also participated in national politics and maintained representation in the Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha. Its relationship with the BJP changed over time, moving from an electoral alliance in Odisha to a separate political position.
In the 2024 Odisha Assembly election, the BJP defeated the BJD and formed the State government, ending the BJD's 24-year tenure. Naveen Patnaik subsequently became the Leader of the Opposition in the Odisha Legislative Assembly, while the BJD continued as the principal opposition party in the State.
Achievements
Biju Janata Dal News

Odisha Forms Commission to Examine Political Representation of Backward Classes Ahead of Local Elections
Odisha's decision to establish a commission examining backward-class political representation has placed reservation, local democracy and electoral preparation at the centre of state politics.
By Shivani CH • 3 views



















