What Next for Naveen Patnaik

Bhubaneswar: Naveen Patnaik’s demeanor has remarkably changed after the Biju Janata Dal (BJD) faced a significant electoral defeat. Patnaik, the usually reclusive former Chief Minister of Odisha, now appears more cheerful, engaging with party members and showing renewed energy.

End of a Long Reign

The 77-year-old leader faces a potentially somber end to his political career following the BJD’s crushing defeat. The BJD lost all 21 Lok Sabha seats and secured only 51 out of 147 assembly seats, ceding power to the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), which won 78 seats. This ended Patnaik’s 24-year reign, just short of breaking the record for the longest-serving chief minister in India, set by Sikkim’s Pawan Chamling.

Future Prospects

Despite his party’s defeat, Patnaik retains significant goodwill. As the BJD’s tallest leader and possibly the most influential politician in Odisha, he can still lead the Opposition in the assembly. However, it is unlikely that he will reclaim his former position. By the next election in 2029, Patnaik will be 82, and his health may not permit an active political role.

Holding the BJD Together

Patnaik’s immediate challenge is to keep the BJD intact amidst potential poaching attempts by the BJP. He relies on his trusted lieutenant, VK Pandian, a former IAS officer. Although Pandian’s prominence was partly blamed for the BJD’s electoral downfall, he continues to enjoy Patnaik’s support. Pandian has announced his withdrawal from active politics but may continue to influence from behind the scenes, potentially even involving his wife, Sujata, in future leadership roles.

A Formidable Force

Despite recent setbacks, the BJD remains a formidable political force in Odisha. With Pandian’s strategic acumen and the political capital left by Patnaik, the party could still have a future. While Patnaik’s era might be concluding, the BJD’s story is far from over.

Patnaik’s legacy and the BJD’s resilience will determine whether they can navigate through this period of political upheaval and emerge strong in the future.