Naveen Patnaik’s continued absence in Odisha Assembly raises eyebrows

The ongoing winter session of the Odisha Legislative Assembly, which commenced on November 27, has been marked by active debates, zero hour discussions, and deliberations on additional budget proposals. Yet, one notable absence has drawn considerable attention- that of BJD supremo and Leader of Opposition Naveen Patnaik.

Over the past nine days of the session, Naveen has attended the House only once, on the day of the President’s visit. While he remains active on social media and continues to meet party leaders and officials at his residence to review organisational matters, his prolonged absence inside the Assembly has become a subject of political scrutiny.

The BJP and Congress have questioned his non-participation in House proceedings, expressing concerns over the functioning of the Opposition in a democratic setup.

"We have seen you campaign twice in Nuapada, which is nearly 600 km away from here. Yet, the Legislative Assembly, located barely six kilometres from your residence, remains unattended. If the Leader of Opposition does not participate in the Assembly proceedings, it amounts to a mockery of democracy," said BJP leader Babu Singh.

"The Leader of Opposition should regularly attend the Assembly and raise many issues of the State," said Congress leader Rama Chandra Kadam.

Also Read: Naveen Patnaik kept under house arrest, not allowed to meet anyone: MP Debashish Samantaray makes shocking claims

In response, the BJD has clarified that Naveen’s absence is due to health-related reasons and that he joins the Assembly whenever his condition permits.

"Are all MLAs attending the Assembly regularly? Naveen Babu isn’t completely absent, but due to health concerns, his attendance has been comparatively low," said BJD leader Ganeswar Behera.

Notably, Naveen was seen campaigning twice during the recent Nuapada by-election, and has held discussions with party leaders following BJD’s weakening in Bhadrak. Despite this, he has not been present in the winter session beyond the inaugural day, leading to growing curiosity among political observers.

Meanwhile, issues that stirred public reaction on social media such as the additional budget and the cancellation of the ANM exam, have not surfaced in the House. Analysts believe the absence of the BJD chief may be weakening the party’s assertiveness in the Assembly, despite it being the primary opposition with 50 MLAs.

Observers note that during the last two sessions, the Opposition space often appeared dominated by Congress, even with only 14 members actively participating. This has intensified discussions over whether Naveen’s continued absence is impacting BJD’s ability to voice concerns effectively inside the Assembly.

"If Naveen Patnaik is not attending the Assembly due to genuine health issues, that is understandable. However, if his absence is deliberate, it amounts to neglecting his constitutional responsibilities. As the Leader of the Opposition, his presence in the House is crucial. If he is intentionally avoiding Assembly proceedings or shows disinterest in parliamentary affairs, then questions will naturally arise. It is an important constitutional duty, and he must fulfil it with sincerity and accountability," said political analyst Prasanna Mohanty.