Leader of Opposition and Biju Janata Dal (BJD) president Naveen Patnaik announced on Saturday, 7 November 2026, that he will not celebrate Diwali this year, standing in solidarity with citizens severely impacted by recent floods and landslides across Odisha.
The decision follows extensive damage in Ganjam, Gajapati, and Kandhamal districts caused by heavy rains and flooding triggered by Cyclone Arnab.
“The floods triggered by Cyclone Arnab have caused extensive damage leaving people in unspeakable distress. In Kandhamal, rescue operations are still on… In this hour of grief, I have decided not to celebrate Diwali.”
— Naveen Patnaik, Leader of Opposition & BJD President
Extensive Damage and Ongoing Rescue Operations
Patnaik expressed deep concern over the scale of destruction in southern Odisha, highlighting the ongoing humanitarian crisis in the affected belts.
Flash floods triggered by the cyclone have inundated villages, ruined crops, and left thousands of families in acute distress.
Search and rescue teams continue operations in Kandhamal to locate residents missing after catastrophic landslides buried homes under heavy debris.
Patnaik is currently touring flood-damaged areas across Ganjam district to review relief operations and interact directly with affected communities.
