By Sunil Jena, Editor-in-Chief | The Politics Odia
Odisha politics has once again heated up with fresh controversies surrounding the BJD’s internal affairs. At the centre of it all is V.K. Pandian, the close aide of former Chief Minister and BJD Supremo Naveen Patnaik.
The issue came into the spotlight after leading Odia daily Dharitri reported that Pandian allegedly threatened party leaders with suspension when they gathered at the hospital to inquire about Naveen Patnaik’s health. The news has created a storm in political circles, raising questions about Pandian’s authority inside the BJD.
What is more striking is the growing discussion around the secrecy maintained by the Pandian couple regarding Naveen Patnaik’s health condition. Party insiders say that since Naveen’s surgery in Mumbai and his return to Bhubaneswar, no BJD leader has been allowed direct access to him. Only 3–4 handpicked individuals have reportedly been permitted to meet him briefly inside Naveen Niwas.
Even senior leaders who went to meet him were only given 1–2 minutes from a distance, sparking dissatisfaction within the party ranks. Many are now asking: Why is Pandian acting as a gatekeeper? And why is he not allowing party leaders to interact freely with their supremo?
While official statements suggest Naveen Patnaik’s health is improving, the lack of transparency fuels speculation. Opposition parties have also picked up this issue, accusing the BJD of hiding the truth from the people of Odisha.
With Naveen’s health becoming a matter of concern and Pandian consolidating his control, political observers believe this could be part of a larger “Plan-B” strategy — a careful power shift inside the BJD. But the big question remains: where is Pandian drawing such courage and authority from, and will the party cadres accept it silently?
One thing is certain — the coming days will test not only Naveen Patnaik’s health but also the future direction of Odisha’s ruling party.
