Biju Janata Dal (BJD) supremo and former Odisha Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik is set to embark on a four-day visit to Delhi starting Sunday, sparking widespread discussions in political circles. Accompanying him will be his personal security officer, Chandrashekhar Pati, and close aide V.K. Pandian, according to party sources.
Patnaik’s trip includes attending the inauguration of an art festival in the national capital. However, the timing of the visit—just days ahead of the Vice Presidential election scheduled for September 9—has fueled speculation about potential political announcements. The BJD has yet to publicly declare its support for any candidate in the upcoming poll, and there is a possibility that Patnaik may reveal the party’s position during his stay in Delhi.
This visit comes on the heels of Patnaik’s recent health scare last month, when he was hospitalized. During that period, Prime Minister Narendra Modi personally inquired about his well-being and extended an invitation for a meeting once he recovered. Political observers are buzzing with the prospect of a potential interaction between the two leaders during this trip.
Patnaik’s last visit to Delhi was in March, making this his first trip to the capital in several months. As one of India’s longest-serving chief ministers, his movements continue to draw significant attention, especially in the context of national politics and alliances.
