Controversy Over Odisha BJP’s ‘Derogatory’ Post Targeting Naveen Patnaik and VK Pandian

Bhubaneswar: A political row has erupted in Odisha after the state BJP shared a “derogatory” image of former Chief Minister and BJD president Naveen Patnaik, along with his ex-aide VK Pandian, on social media platform X. The post accused them of being responsible for the ongoing potato crisis in the state.

The image sparked sharp reactions from the Biju Janata Dal (BJD), whose MPs took to X to criticize the post and sought the intervention of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Union Home Minister Amit Shah, and BJP national president JP Nadda.

The BJP, however, defended the post, stating that criticism is a fundamental part of politics and should be accepted by all parties.

The controversy has added fuel to the already heated political environment in Odisha, with both parties trading barbs over the issue. The BJD called the post “undignified” and accused the BJP of resorting to personal attacks to gain political mileage.

The potato crisis in Odisha has become a flashpoint, with political parties blaming each other for supply disruptions and rising prices. The incident underscores the growing tension between the two parties as they gear up for upcoming electoral battles in the state.