Bhubaneswar, Sept 9: Senior Biju Janata Dal (BJD) leader N Bhaskar Rao on Tuesday resigned from the party’s primary membership, expressing dissatisfaction with its functioning.

According to reports, N Bhaskar Rao, along with Lal Bihari Himirika, announced their resignation at a press conference.

Rao expressed dissatisfaction with the appointment of the district president, stating that it had hurt the sentiments of party workers. He criticized the decision to appoint a defeated candidate as district president, overlooking more capable leaders.

Rao expressed disappointment that the party leadership had ignored the sentiments of its workers in the decision-making process.

He also announced his intention to continue his political journey by launching a new party, the ‘Biju Swabhiman Manch’.

Speaking to the media, Rao stated, "The BJD's president selection has hurt the sentiments of everyone. A defeated candidate has been appointed as president, while capable leaders have been overlooked. We are not against Naveen, but we are true Biju admirers. We will support the decisions made by the workers."