Odisha has a multi-party political system, with several political parties active in the state. Here is a brief summary of the history and major political parties in Odisha:
Indian National Congress (INC) - The INC was the dominant political party in Odisha during the pre-independence era and remained in power in the state for several years after independence. The party was instrumental in the formation of the state of Odisha in 1936.
Biju Janata Dal (BJD) - The BJD is the ruling political party in Odisha and was founded in 1997 by Naveen Patnaik, the son of former Chief Minister Biju Patnaik. The party has been in power in the state since 2000 and has won successive assembly elections.
Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) - The BJP has been making inroads in Odisha in recent years and has emerged as the main opposition party in the state. The party has been successful in winning seats in both the state assembly and the Lok Sabha.
Communist Party of India (CPI) - The CPI has a strong presence in Odisha and has been active in the state since the pre-independence era. The party has won seats in the state assembly in the past but has not been able to gain significant political power.
Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP) - The BSP has a limited presence in Odisha and has not been able to win significant political power in the state.
Over the years, the political landscape in Odisha has witnessed significant changes with the emergence of new parties and the decline of others. The major political parties in the state have played a crucial role in shaping the political, economic, and social landscape of Odisha.
Directory of Political Parties in Odisha with brief information and websites. BJP Odisha is listed.