Prime Minister Narendra Modi has expressed worries about the declining health of Odisha Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik. The concern surfaced following a viral video showing Patnaik’s hands shaking, allegedly being steadied by his aide VK Pandian.
PM Modi emphasized that close associates of CM Patnaik have voiced worries over his significant health decline within the past year, leading to suspicions of a possible conspiracy.
Responding to these concerns, PM Modi announced plans to establish a special committee to investigate whether there is a lobby operating in Patnaik’s name, potentially responsible for his health issues. Despite these concerns, CM Patnaik has refuted reports regarding his health, stating that he is in “very good health.”
'Is There A Conspiracy Behind CM Naveen's Deteriorating Health?'
'Is The Lobby Running Odisha In The Name Of Naveen Babu Responsible For The Poor Health Condition Of The CM?'
People are concerned about the health of CM Naveen Patnaik that how his health deteriorated so much in… pic.twitter.com/foJJo2UvGZ
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The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has seized upon this issue, launching scathing criticisms against the ruling Biju Janata Dal (BJD) government over what they perceive as a proxy administration.
They argue that a person born in Odisha should hold the position of Chief Minister, rather than a retired IAS officer from Tamil Nadu, like Pandian, who they allege has become the de facto CM exerting control over Patnaik.
In the viral video, Pandian can be seen holding the microphone while closely observing CM Patnaik. When Patnaik’s hands tremble, Pandian intervenes to conceal them from public view. The BJP views this as symbolic of Pandian’s influence and control over the state.
PM Modi addressed the issue of Patnaik’s health during an election rally in Baripada, stating that the people of Odisha have the right to know the truth behind his declining health. He questioned whether there is indeed a conspiracy at play and whether the lobby allegedly operating in Patnaik’s name is responsible for his poor health.
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Union Home Minister Amit Shah also weighed in on the matter during a rally in Jajpur, criticizing Pandian for allegedly obstructing Odia celebrations of ‘Ram Mahotsav.’
Shah asserted that it is unacceptable for someone from Tamil Nadu to hold the position of Chief Minister in Odisha and pledged that the BJP would provide an Odia-speaking, locally rooted CM if elected.
The issue of Naveen Patnaik’s health has thus become a focal point in the political discourse in Odisha, with both the BJP and the ruling BJD engaging in a heated debate over governance and representation in the state.
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