In a heated session at the Odisha Legislative Assembly, BJP MLA Bibhuti Bhushan Pradhan found himself in hot water after expressing concerns about the health of Leader of Opposition, Naveen Patnaik.
Pradhan referenced ongoing social media buzz, stating that when “Tamil Babu” (referring to V.K. Pandian) is active, Naveen Babu remains inactive, and vice versa—implying a possible influence or control dynamic. This led to strong protests from BJD members, forcing the Speaker to intervene and compel Pradhan to retract his remarks.
The incident unfolded after the assembly resumed normal proceedings following a three-day stalemate. Earlier in the day, the opposition’s protests had disrupted the morning session, but the afternoon saw the World University Bill being referred to a consultative committee. Seizing a point of order, Pradhan highlighted reports of Patnaik’s recent ill health, noting that several leaders from BJD, Congress, and BJP had attempted to visit him but were unable to meet. Even Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi and Prime Minister Narendra Modi had inquired about his condition.
Pradhan emphasised that everyone holds affection for Patnaik and there is no issue with that. However, he pointed to social media discussions: “Tamil Babu active, Naveen Babu inactive; Naveen Babu active, Tamil Babu in seclusion.” He noted that since the monsoon session began on the 18th, the LoP has been absent from the House. Recalling PM Modi’s pre-election promise that a BJP government in Odisha would investigate Patnaik’s health, Pradhan urged Chief Minister Majhi to form a probe committee to examine the matter, honouring the PM’s words.
This provoked an immediate uproar from BJD members. Opposition chief whip Pramila Mallik stood up, demanding that Pradhan’s comments be expunged from the assembly records, arguing they were unnecessary and inappropriate. Other BJD MLAs joined in, protesting loudly and insisting on the remarks being withdrawn. A brief verbal clash ensued between BJD and BJP members.
The Speaker attempted to calm the situation, declaring that no investigation into the LoP’s health was needed. Despite this, BJD members persisted. The Speaker then clarified that everyone is aware of Patnaik’s health status, describing him as a respected member of the House. She stated there was no need to interpret or probe anyone’s absence for external reasons, and noted that Pradhan’s words did not contain any unparliamentary language but seemed emotionally driven. She urged BJD members to resume their seats and cooperate with the proceedings.
However, the protests continued, with BJD insisting on either expunging the comments or directing Pradhan to retract them. Eventually, Pradhan addressed the House: “I have not said anything in this House to hurt anyone’s sentiments. If my words have hurt anyone, I withdraw them.” Following this, the BJD members calmed down, and the session proceeded.
The episode highlights ongoing political tensions in Odisha, where health rumours and social media narratives have fueled speculation about leadership dynamics within the BJD after its recent electoral setbacks.
