In a significant political development, Naveen Patnaik, the long-serving Chief Minister of Odisha, resigned on Wednesday following the defeat of his party, the Biju Janata Dal (BJD), in the state assembly elections. This marks the end of Patnaik’s 24-year rule in Odisha.

Patnaik submitted his resignation letter to Governor Raghubar Das at the Raj Bhavan, according to sources. Despite the presence of numerous BJD leaders at his residence, Patnaik chose to visit the governor’s house alone to tender his resignation.

Patnaik’s departure marks a dramatic shift in Odisha’s political landscape. During his tenure, he was known for his administrative acumen and numerous developmental initiatives that significantly transformed the state’s infrastructure and social sectors.

The assembly poll defeat comes as a major setback for the BJD, which has been a dominant force in Odisha politics for over two decades. The election results have prompted the party to introspect and reassess its strategies going forward.

As the state braces for new leadership, the end of Patnaik’s era leaves a legacy of both accomplishments and challenges for his successors to address. The political dynamics in Odisha are set to undergo significant changes as new leaders emerge to fill the vacuum left by Patnaik’s departure.