Bhubaneswar, Aug 18: A wave of concern and political tension gripped Bhubaneswar on Sunday evening after BJD President and Leader of Opposition Naveen Patnaik was admitted to a city hospital following a reported deterioration in his health condition. Amid this, a cryptic statement by VK Pandian, as reported by an Odia news daily, fuelled speculation of his present influence in the party.

As news of his hospitalization spread, a few BJD leaders rushed to the private hospital, gathering on the second floor while Patnaik underwent treatment on the third. The atmosphere was tense, with party leaders anxiously awaiting updates.

Around 7:30 PM, former bureaucrat and Pandian's wife Sujata R Karthikeyan arrived at the hospital accompanied by doctors. Her presence drew attention, and many leaders stood to greet her. However, senior BJD MLA Ranendra Pratap Swain confronted her, questioning the delay in Patnaik’s admission and the lack of communication with party members, says the report in the news daily.

“Why was he brought so late? Is something being hidden here?” he asked. Sujata reportedly did not respond and proceeded to the third floor.

The situation escalated when Pradesh Congress Committee (PCC) President Bhakta Charan Das arrived, hoping to meet the BJD president. He was denied access, reportedly by Pandian. Shortly after, a brief argument ensued, and Pandian, visibly upset, descended to the second floor.

The news daily reported that, according to eyewitnesses, Pandian made a cryptic remark: “I am down, not out,” which many interpreted as a veiled warning. Several leaders reportedly claimed Pandian hinted at disciplinary action against Ranendra Pratap Swain, possibly even suspension.

The unfolding drama has sparked speculation within political circles about internal rifts and the handling of Patnaik’s health issues. As the party awaits official updates, the incident has raised questions about transparency and leadership dynamics within the BJD.

Providing update on Patnaik's health condition, BJD leaders have said that the former Chief Minister’s condition “is stable”.

“Doctors have issued a bulletin. He had breakfast in the morning. He is currently in the ICU. The decision on when he will be discharged will be made by the doctors. We did not meet him, but we discussed his health condition with the medical team,” stated one of the BJD leaders.

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