From Pyari to Sujata: Bureaucrats who shaped — and shook — Odisha politics
Sujata Rout Karthikeyan's recent entry into the Biju Janata Dal (BJD) underscores the increasing influence of bureaucrats in Odisha politics. Former chief minister Naveen Patnaik emphasized her role as a simple party member, while noting his leadership in upcoming elections. This trend reflects a broader pattern of civil servants transitioning into political roles over the last two decades.