- VK Pandian left the possibility of an electoral alliance between the BJD and the BJP in Odisha open.
- Pandian emphasized that discussions between the two parties were not solely focused on winning elections but extended beyond electoral outcomes.
- Pandian emphasized that discussions between the two parties were not solely focused on winning elections but extended beyond electoral outcomes.
- He suggested that an alliance with the BJP may not be essential for the BJD to secure a sixth consecutive term in Odisha.
- Reflecting on his association with Chief Minister Patnaik, Pandian praised him as a “great soul” and expressed gratitude for the opportunity to work alongside him for over a decade.
- Pandian’s remarks hint at a potential realignment in Odisha’s political landscape, with the prospect of a BJD-BJP alliance looming on the horizon.
VK Pandian, the Chairman of 5T and Nabin Odisha, left the possibility of an electoral alliance between the Biju Janata Dal (BJD) and the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) in Odisha open, stating, “If anything happens we will all get to know.”
Pandian emphasized that discussions between the two parties were not solely focused on winning elections but extended beyond electoral outcomes. He highlighted the camaraderie between Odisha Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik and Prime Minister Narendra Modi, describing an alliance between them as a demonstration of great statesmanship, rather than a strategic move for electoral gains.
Acknowledging Chief Minister Patnaik’s popularity and the BJD’s dominance in past elections, Pandian suggested that an alliance with the BJP may not be essential for the BJD to secure a sixth consecutive term in Odisha. However, he portrayed the potential alliance as a partnership between two influential leaders for a greater cause, emphasizing its symbolic significance over its electoral implications.
Pandian clarified that despite his foray into politics, he harbors no intentions of contesting elections personally. Instead, he expressed his commitment to supporting Chief Minister Patnaik in ensuring the BJD’s victory in the upcoming Assembly polls.
Reflecting on his association with Chief Minister Patnaik, Pandian praised him as a “great soul” and expressed gratitude for the opportunity to work alongside him for over a decade. He attributed his decision to enter politics to a desire to better connect with the people of Odisha and contribute to their welfare under Patnaik’s leadership.
Responding to criticism labeling him as an “outsider,” Pandian acknowledged being the target of opposition attacks but suggested that assessing his acceptance among the people of Odisha requires observing their interactions and discussions with him first hand.
Pandian’s remarks hint at a potential realignment in Odisha’s political landscape, with the prospect of a BJD-BJP alliance looming on the horizon. As speculation mounts, the dynamics between the two parties and their leaders will likely attract increased attention in the lead-up to the state elections.
(With inputs from agencies)
