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In recent weeks, the political atmosphere in Odisha has been heating up. The BJP has been increasingly targeting Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik, focusing on his health and claiming it is affecting his ability to govern. In response, Patnaik has maintained his calm demeanor, dismissing the BJP’s comments as distractions.
The Incident
A video of Naveen Patnaik’s aide, VK Pandian, trying to hide Patnaik’s trembling hands during a speech has gone viral. This has led to a series of attacks from BJP leaders. Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma was among the first to comment, suggesting that Pandian is attempting to take control over Odisha’s politics.
Sarma posted the video on X (formerly Twitter), expressing his concerns about Pandian’s influence. He stated, “Shri VK Pandian ji is even controlling the hand movements of Shri Naveen Babu. I shudder to imagine the level of control a retired ex-bureaucrat from Tamil Nadu is currently exercising over the future of Odisha! BJP is determined to give back the reins of Odisha to the people of the State.”
BJP’s Criticism
The BJP has been using the video to question Patnaik’s ability to continue leading the state. BJP IT cell head Amit Malviya suggested that Patnaik should retire due to his health issues, saying, “Naveen Patnaik ji had a memorable tenure as Chief Minister. But now he is indisposed. It is, however, unfortunate how he is being pushed to keep up a facade. Odisha realises it. A graceful farewell to the veteran politician and BJD, in these elections, would be a befitting tribute.”
Patnaik’s Response
Naveen Patnaik responded to these criticisms with his trademark calmness. In a 13-second video, he put up his left hand on the podium and stated, “I believe the BJP, which is known to make non-issues into issues, are discussing my hands. This will certainly not work.” Patnaik emphasized that he is in good health and has been actively campaigning across the state.
VK Pandian’s Role
VK Pandian, a key aide to Patnaik, has been under scrutiny from the BJP. They accuse him of trying to control Patnaik and, by extension, the state of Odisha. Union Home Minister Amit Shah referred to Pandian as a “Tamil babu” ruling over Odisha and promised that the BJP would free the state from “babu raj.”
Pandian, on the other hand, has been dismissive of these claims. He pointed out the BJP’s own mistakes, listing nine “self goals” that he believes will ensure the Biju Janata Dal (BJD) remains in power.
The Bigger Picture
While the BJP is focusing on Patnaik’s health and Pandian’s role, many believe these are mere distractions from the real issues. Despite the anti-incumbency factor, Patnaik remains popular in Odisha. His reputation for being a quiet yet effective leader holds strong.
Bhuwaneshwar-based academic Brahmanand Satpathy commented, “Modi stands for the whole of India, and he has elevated India’s image on the world stage. That message has gone to the people in Odisha. But when it comes to the assembly election, they value Naveen Patnaik. They know that he speaks less and works more.”
Data Table: Key Points about the Incident
| Topic | Details |
|---|---|
| Incident | Video of VK Pandian hiding Naveen Patnaik’s trembling hands |
| BJP’s Claims | Patnaik’s health affects his governance; Pandian controls Odisha |
| Key BJP Figures | Himanta Biswa Sarma, Amit Malviya, Amit Shah |
| Patnaik’s Response | Dismissed claims; emphasized good health and active campaigning |
| Pandian’s Role | Accused of trying to control Patnaik; dismissed BJP’s claims |
| Election Context | Simultaneous assembly and Lok Sabha elections in Odisha |
| Public Perception | Patnaik remains popular despite anti-incumbency; valued for effectiveness |
As Odisha gears up for its assembly and Lok Sabha elections, the political battle is intensifying. The BJP’s focus on Patnaik’s health and VK Pandian’s role might not resonate with voters as much as they hope. Patnaik’s calm and straightforward response to these attacks may well reinforce his image as a resilient and dedicated leader.
By maintaining his composure and directly addressing the criticisms, Naveen Patnaik continues to focus on his campaign, demonstrating his commitment to leading Odisha.
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