VK Pandian Quits Active Politics After BJD Loses Odisha

VK Pandian Quits Active Politics After BJD Loses Odisha

Bhubaneswar, May 3, 2023: Senior Biju Janata Dal (BJD) leader and former minister VK Pandian has announced his retirement from active politics, offering apologies to party workers for the party’s loss in the recent Odisha Assembly elections.

“I have decided to step down from active politics and will no longer hold any position in the BJD,” said Pandian in a statement. “I take full responsibility for the party’s electoral performance and apologize to our dedicated workers who tirelessly campaigned for us.”

Pandian, who served as the Minister of Tourism and Culture in the previous BJD government, expressed his gratitude to party president Naveen Patnaik and the people of Odisha for the opportunities he had been given.

“I am eternally grateful to Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik for his guidance and support over the years,” said Pandian. “I also thank the people of Odisha for the trust they have placed in me.”

Pandian’s resignation comes after the BJD lost 31 seats in the recent elections, falling from 112 seats in the previous Assembly to 81. The loss was attributed to a number of factors, including anti-incumbency, the rise of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), and the entry of new regional parties into the electoral fray.

Pandian’s decision to quit active politics is seen as a sign of accountability and a desire to make way for younger leaders in the party. He is expected to continue to provide guidance and support to the BJD in a non-official capacity.

Keywords: VK Pandian, BJD, Odisha Assembly Elections, Retirement, Politics, Apology