Don’t write off AAP in Odisha, Yet!

ONI Bureau: The local media in Odisha hardly bothers about the Aam Aadmi Party, which is in power in Delhi and trying to penetrate deep into the state in their own way. Yes, they are way behind the mainstream political parties in the state. But, are we doing a fair job by completely writing them off as if they don’t exist at all?

TV Channels avoid calling AAP Spokespersons to their panel discussions barring a few exceptions (they are called only if there is a discussion on AAP facing any setback in Delhi). The print media does not even know whether AAP and its leaders exist in Odisha. And, should we expect anything from web media?

The media in Odisha (we are also included) hardly see anything beyond BJD, BJP and Congress. We are not willing to discuss alternative politics or listen to off-beat politicians. Even we want to give importance to Kharabela Swain, Bijoy Mohapatra, Braja Tripathy etc. who hardly make any impact in Odisha Politics, but we just laugh when somebody mentions Nishikanta Mohapatra as a good leader. “Who is he? What is his strength? No kidding, please!” Yes, these are the real reactions we get.

Is AAP really a non-existent entity in Odisha Politics? Of course not! While BJD and BJP are tying hard to outwit each other politically instead of focusing on people’s problems and Congress getting busy in power tussle, AAP is probably the only party in Odisha, which is trying to reach out to the masses and hear their problems. Yes, they have their limitations. But, at least they are making their presence felt in many districts of the state.

In recent months, several central leaders of Aam Aadmi Party have visited Odisha and held rallies too. And, many are on a secret mission to know the pulse of the people and formulate a strategy to ensure AAP emerges as an alternative in Odisha – may not be immediately, but in future.

AAP has so far targeted BJP more and BJD less. It sees Modi, Amit Shah and BJP as Enemy No. 1 and BJD as a force, which managed to stop the saffron party’s march in Odisha. But, it’s high time AAP takes a stand in Odisha, focusing more on issues related to Government and Governance in the state. BJP may be their bitter rival at the national level. But, in Odisha, they have the big challenge to counter BJD, which remains invincible till date. But in politics, nothing is impossible.