Naveen Patnaik Defends VK Pandian Amidst Controversial Criticism

BJD leader Naveen Patnaik defended his aide V K Pandian, praising his work during his tenure and asserting that he would not be his successor. Patnaik accepted the election defeat gracefully and expressed his commitment to continue serving the people of Odisha. The BJP won power in the recent elections.

In a recent statement, BJD supremo Naveen Patnaik staunchly defended his aide, VK Pandian, against mounting criticism following the party's electoral defeat in Odisha. Patnaik commended Pandian's 'excellent job' during his tenure, mentioning his remarkable work during cyclones and the COVID-19 pandemic.

The five-term chief minister reiterated that Pandian, a former bureaucrat turned politician, is not being groomed as his successor. 'The people of Odisha will decide who my successor will be,' Patnaik emphasized.

Patnaik acknowledged the party's defeat, expressing his commitment to continue serving the state despite the setback. BJP clinched victory, ending BJD's 24-year rule by winning 78 seats in the 147-member assembly, while BJD managed 51 seats.