Biju Janata Dal (BJD) supremo and former Odisha Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik left for Mumbai from Bhubaneswar on Friday to undergo surgery for cervical arthritis. Patnaik, 78, who also serves as the Leader of the Opposition in the Odisha Assembly, is scheduled to undergo the medical procedure on June 22 at Kokilaben Dhirubhai Ambani Hospital in Mumbai, under the supervision of his personal physician, Dr. Ramakanta Panda.
While Prime Minister Narendra Modi is arriving in Bhubaneswar today to address a public programme marking BJP’s 11 years in power at the Centre and one year of governance in Odisha, Naveen Patnaik—who lost power last year after ruling the state continuously for a record 24 years—has left for Mumbai for health reasons.
Patnaik had been suffering pain due to spondylitis for last few days and was under treatment. Before his departure for Mumbai, a large crowd of party leaders and workers had gathered at his residence, Naveen Nivas, and at the airport to express their support. Many offered prayers for his speedy recovery and the success of the surgery, which is considered somewhat critical, especially due to his advanced age.
Naveen Patnaik took to social media to inform the public about his medical travel, stating: "On doctor’s advice, I will undergo treatment for cervical arthritis on June 22nd in Mumbai. With blessings from Lord Jagannath and good wishes from the people of Odisha, I will soon be back to serve you all."
In his absence, senior BJD leader and former minister Debiprasad Mishra will temporarily handle party responsibilities. Mishra, along with the BJD Political Affairs Committee, will oversee the party's functioning until Patnaik returns.
After Patnaik’s treatment plan in Mumbai became known, Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi spoke to him and wished him a speedy recovery. Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan, the two Deputy Chief Ministers of Odisha, K.V. Singhdeo and Pravati Parida, Works and Law Minister Prithviraj Harichandan, along with several other leaders from various spheres, have also conveyed their best wishes.
Despite being the main opposition party in the state, the Biju Janata Dal (BJD) is currently facing internal disturbances, affecting its smooth functioning. The Congress, which holds the third position in the state, is trying to capitalize on this situation. Under its new president, Mr. Bhakta Charan Das, a former Union Minister, the Odisha Pradesh Congress Committee (PCC) has organized several programmes opposing the BJP-led state government. Confident of gaining ground, the Congress hopes to surpass the BJD soon. Congress leader Rahul Gandhi is scheduled to visit Odisha in July.
