Jayadev Jena hits back at Detractors

As many leaders in Odisha Congress are camping in New Delhi to seek the ouster of Jayadev Jena as the PCC President, the beleaguered leader hit back at his detractors, reminding them the traditions of the Congress Party.

Jena minced no words to slam his opponents, saying only the High Command can take a decision on the issue of change in leadership. “I still reiterate my stand that I had offered to quit after the 2014 polls on May 16, but the High Command decided against any change in leadership. If I am asked to pave away for others, I will happily do it as a loyal soldier of the party,” he said.

“I have no knowledge why some leaders have gone to Delhi and what they are doing there. But, instead of going to media, they should have discussed all issues and concerns within the party forum,” said Mr. Jena.

There is a growing demand within the Odisha Congress to replace Jayadev Jena and hand over key responsibilities of reviving the party to former Odisha CM JB Patnaik, who returned to Odisha on December 11 following the expiry of his term as the Assam Governor.