While PM Modi felicitated kins of 16 Paika Warriors of 1817 Rebellion in Odisha at Raj Bhavan yesterday, the only photo/visual that made the headlines in local media as well nationally, was of late Congress leader Lulu Mohapatra’s daughter Upasna Mohapatra.
Soon after the event, Upasna posted the pic on Facbeook with the caption, “Thank you for making it possible, Dharmendra Mamu! Always grateful to you.” The message was aimed at Dharmendra Pradhan, BJP’s potential CM face in Odisha.
Upasna’s photo with blessings from PM Modi hit the headlines. It was a careful and clever plant to promote her as a future youth icon within the BJP. It’s no secret that Lulu Mohapatra still had lakhs of supporters and BJP wants to cash in on his popularity. Whether the grassroot Congress cadres or Lulu Sena members, they are ready to do anything for their Lulu Bhai’s daughter and they would extend full support to her even if she joins BJP at a later stage.
Although Upasna has not yet opened her cards and terms the news as a “rumour”, BJP does not want to let this opportunity go. The party desperately needs a strong face in Coastal Odisha, and it may want to utilise Upasna’s service to reach out to the masses. It would be interesting to see when Upasna takes the final plunge. Sooner or Later!!!
Kalinga AI