Political Speculations Rise as Arun Patnaik Visits Bhubaneswar After BJD’s Election Defeat

Following the Biju Janata Dal’s (BJD) significant defeat in the recent Odisha elections, attention is now focused on the party’s leader, Naveen Patnaik, and his potential next steps after a 24-year tenure. The unexpected arrival of his nephew, Arun Patnaik, in Bhubaneswar has intensified discussions within political circles. Arun, the grandson of renowned leader Biju Patnaik and son of Naveen’s elder brother Prem Patnaik, could be a potential successor to Naveen. He arrived in the state capital alongside BJD leader V K Pandian, with both being welcomed at the airport by BJD organisational secretary Pranab Prakash Das. The group then proceeded to Naveen Niwas, the residence of the BJD president, fueling further speculation about the party’s future leadership.