TV
The recently-launched revised biography, 'Naveen Patnaik' by Ruben Banerjee has unveiled intriguing insights into the political dynamics and influential figures during Patnaik's tenure as Chief Minister of Odisha.
One of the most notable revelations in the book is the significant role played by V. K. Pandian. A chapter intriguingly titled 'The Pandian Puzzle' explores how Pandian rose to prominence within the state’s governance, wielding considerable influence over decision-making processes. Banerjee delves into Pandian’s strategies and how he managed to hold sway in the political corridors.
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The biography also scrutinises the factors contributing to the Biju Janata Dal's (BJD) defeat in the 2024 elections. According to Banerjee, these elucidations shed light on the individuals who had the Chief Minister's ear during pivotal moments.
Overall, Banerjee's work promises to ignite discussions around the internal workings and relationships within Odisha's political landscape.
“On Pandian babu’s appearance and his influence, there is a big chapter titled ‘Pandian Puzzle’ in the book. This chapter is very interesting in contemporary Odisha politics. This book also has several interesting anecdotes,” said Ruben Banerjee.
“The sycophants surrounding Naveen Patnaik were poisoning the latter’s ears against Baijayant Panda. They had told him that Baijayant Panda might become a big leader of Biju Patnaik stature,” he added.
Former Police DG Amiya Bhushan Tripathy said during Pandian’s dominance there was no democracy in the state because all ministers were reduced to nothing.
“My article ‘Pandian Syndrome’ was published in a newspaper. I described how the governance in Odisha was neglected, how a single person ruled the state and how there was no democracy because all ministers had no say,” said Tripathy.
Former BJD leader Soumya Ranjan Patnaik too launched a veiled attack on Naveen Patnaik saying he can’t accept someone to rule him without learning his language.
“What Odisha people didn’t give him? They showered their love on him. Yet, he couldn’t learn the language (Odia). What he was before 1998 and what he became after 1998? Who has given him name, fame and wealth? I can’t accept someone ruling me without learning my language,” said Patnaik.
At the time of filing the report, no comments were received from the BJD on Ruben Banerjee’s book.
