TV
A photograph of VK Pandian with a member of the Biju Janata Dal (BJD) at Naveen Niwas has gone viral on social media, leading to speculation about his current role within the party. BJD MLA Sarada Jena made it clear on Tuesday that Pandian has longstanding connections with the party.
Also Read: VK Pandian was never our leader: BJD MP
“He (VK Pandian) was indeed a part of our (BJD-led) government and he has made significant contributions to the party. His popularity remains undiminished,” Jena stated.
The fascination with Pandian is evident, with many desiring a photograph alongside him. Responding to the criticisms from some leaders blaming Pandian for recent setbacks, Jena remarked, “Why should a person be blamed for any failure? It was team responsibility.”
Questions have arisen regarding Pandian’s activities at Naveen Niwas following his decision to take ‘Sanyaas’.
Jena addressed this by questioning, “Just because one takes Sanyaas, does that mean one has to flee to the Himalayas? Even as a Sanyaasi, if he is staying at home and having pictures taken with him, what’s wrong with that?”
“Media is carrying out a negative campaign that Pandian Babu has been operating Biju Janata Dal, which is not real. BJD is a democratic party and decisions of the party are taken in a democratic process,” the BJD MLA expressed.
Worth mentioning, Pandian had apologised publicly for the BJD’s performance, saying, “I am sorry if this campaign narrative against me has had a part to play in BJD’s loss.” He had emphasised his sole intent was to assist Patnaik and denied owning any property beyond inherited family assets.
Election outcome and Pandian’s resignation
Following BJD’s defeat in the 2024 General Elections, Pandian announced his retirement from active politics on June 9, 2024. He acknowledged the BJP’s campaign targeting his Tamil origins as a factor in the loss, stating, “I gracefully accept my limitations because of my place of birth.”
Must Read: VK Pandian is not my successor, says Odisha CM Naveen Patnaik
Political backlash and controversies
The BJP framed Pandian as an ‘outsider’ threatening Odia Asmita (Odia pride), leveraging his Tamil roots to erode BJD’s support. Critics also cited Patnaik’s declining public visibility post-pandemic and anti-incumbency over unemployment/poverty as contributing factors.
