Naveen Patnaik’s Aide VK Pandian Quits Politics After Odisha Election Drubbing: ‘I Am Sorry If…’

Naveen Patnaik’s Aide VK Pandian Quits Politics After Odisha Election Drubbing: ‘I Am Sorry If…’

Bhubaneswar: Naveen Patnaik’s close aide and former minister VK Pandian has announced his decision to quit politics after the humiliating defeat of the Biju Janata Dal (BJD) in the recently concluded Odisha Assembly elections.

Addressing a press conference, Pandian expressed his disappointment over the party’s performance and took responsibility for the loss. “I am sorry if I have caused any pain or disappointment to the people of Odisha and the party leadership,” he said.

Pandian, who was the Minister for Agriculture, Food Supplies, and Consumer Welfare in the BJD government, was considered one of Patnaik’s closest confidants. He was instrumental in the party’s rise to power and has been a key figure in the Odisha political landscape for nearly two decades.

However, the BJD suffered a major setback in the 2019 elections, losing over 20 seats from its previous tally of 117. The party’s defeat has raised questions about Patnaik’s leadership and the future of the BJD.

Pandian’s resignation is seen as a sign of the growing dissatisfaction within the party over the election results. It is also a blow to Patnaik, who has relied heavily on Pandian’s advice and support.

In his resignation letter, Pandian said that he would continue to support Patnaik and the BJD but would do so “from outside the political arena.” He added that he was “deeply hurt” by the party’s loss and felt that it was time for him to step down.

Pandian’s decision to quit politics has sent shockwaves through Odisha’s political circles. It is unclear what impact his resignation will have on the BJD and the wider political landscape of the state.

Keywords:

– Naveen Patnaik
– VK Pandian
– Odisha elections
– BJD
– Resignation