Lok Sabha Elections 2024: PM Modi's Remarks on Naveen Patnaik's Health Spark Controversy
In the run-up to the Lok Sabha elections, a video showing Odisha Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik's aide, VK Pandian, grabbing his trembling hand has gone viral. This incident has prompted Prime Minister Narendra Modi to announce that the BJP will investigate the reasons behind Patnaik's declining health.
During an election rally in Odisha, PM Modi stated, “If the BJP wins the ongoing assembly elections in Odisha, we will form a committee to investigate the causes of Chief Minister Patnaik's health issues."
He also raised concerns about a possible conspiracy affecting Patnaik's health. "Is there a hidden agenda behind CM Naveen Patnaik's health decline? Is the group running the government on his behalf responsible for this sudden change?" questioned Modi.
The 77-year-old Chief Minister has had a noticeable hand tremor for at least five years. The video that drew attention showed Pandian attempting to hide this tremor by holding Patnaik's hand.
PM Modi further commented, "All of Odisha wants a chief minister who is one of their own," seemingly alluding to Pandian, who is originally from Tamil Nadu.
"The people of Odisha are ready to end the BJD's 25-year reign," he added.
Who is VK Pandian?
VK Pandian, originally from Tamil Nadu, was educated in Delhi and began his career as an IAS officer in the Punjab cadre. After marrying an Odia woman, he transferred to the Odisha cadre. He is widely regarded as Naveen Patnaik's successor. The BJP has labeled him an "outsider" in Odisha's political landscape.
BJP's Criticism of Pandian Over the Viral Video
The BJP, once allied with the Biju Janata Dal, has been critical of VK Pandian following the release of the viral video, interpreting his actions as a symbol of his influence.
Assam Chief Minister and BJP leader Himanta Biswa Sarma shared the video on X (formerly Twitter), expressing his concern. “This video is deeply troubling. VK Pandian appears to control Naveen Babu's hand movements. I dread to think about the level of control this retired bureaucrat from Tamil Nadu exerts over Odisha's future!" Sarma commented.
Amit Malviya, head of the BJP IT cell, suggested that it might be time for Patnaik to step down due to his health. "Naveen Patnaik ji has had a remarkable tenure as Chief Minister. However, given his current health issues, it's unfortunate to see him being made to maintain appearances. Odisha is aware of this. A respectful farewell to the veteran leader and the BJD in these elections would be a fitting tribute," Malviya wrote on X.
Naveen Patnaik's Response to BJP's Allegations
In response to the BJP's claims, Naveen Patnaik released a video message dismissing them as mere distractions.
To underscore his point, Patnaik lifted his left hand (the same one in question) onto the podium before speaking. "The BJP is known for turning non-issues into issues. Now they are focusing on my hands," he said. "This tactic will not succeed," he concluded.
This political tussle over Patnaik's health has added another layer of intrigue to the already heated electoral contest in Odisha. The BJP's allegations and Patnaik's defiant response are sure to play a significant role in the upcoming elections.
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