The Chief Minister of Odisha Naveen Patnaik witnessed the formal inclusion of V K Pandian (IAS:2000:OD), a former IAS officer and close confidant, into the Biju Janata Dal (BJD) on Monday. The event took place at Naveen Niwas, with senior party leaders present, marking a significant political development in Odisha.
V K Pandian, who took voluntary retirement on October 23, holds considerable influence within the power circles of Odisha. Post his retirement, he was appointed as the chairman of Nabin Odisha and Vision 5T, flagship initiatives of the Patnaik government, with the rank of Cabinet minister.
The decision to induct Pandian into the BJD on Kartik Purnima, a day considered auspicious in Odisha, carries political weight. While the specific role and position Pandian will assume within the party are yet to be clarified, insiders suggest that his involvement will be pivotal in shaping the party’s campaign strategy and candidate selection for the upcoming Assembly and general elections in April-May next year.
There is speculation that Pandian might be granted a significant position within the BJD, potentially standing next to Naveen Patnaik, who has been the party’s president since December 26, 1997.
Notably, in March 2023, Pandian began attending public grievance meetings in various districts, ostensibly on the chief minister’s directives. During these visits, he actively engaged with the public, announced developmental schemes, and delivered speeches akin to political leaders, indicating a shift towards a more public role.
