Five Times Chairman and BJD leader VK Pandian advised BJP leader Sambit Patra to take care of his health because of the heat and dust in response to the backlash against his statement that “Lord Jagannath is Modi’s bhakt,” for which Patra has promised to fast for three days as penance.
Subsequent to Sambit Patra’s declaration of a three-day fast beginning on Tuesday and his explanation that his remark was a “slip of the tongue,” Pandian made his observation. During an interview with ANI, Pandian said, “I believe he needs to exercise caution as there is excessive heat and dust.” Take care of himself and eat healthily. He is not supposed to pass out three days before the election. As a physician, he need to be aware of what to do.
When questioned about the BJD’s stance on the issue, Pandian emphasized that the BJD does not engage in politics over religion, particularly regarding Lord Jagannath, who symbolizes Odisha’s identity. “Lord Jagannath can never be escalated and should always be above everything else. BJD never believes in politics over religion, especially Lord Jagannath who is the symbol of Odisha’s identity,” he stated.
Pandian also highlighted Odisha Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik’s stance on keeping religion out of politics. He added, “Many people have commented on social media that it hurt the sentiments of the people of Odisha. The BJP talks about Odia identity, but Lord Jagannath is the symbol of Odisha. The Chief Minister has always felt that we should keep our God outside politics. They are immortal, and we are mortal. Why should we mix both? So he felt hurt when this statement was made.”
Criticizing the BJP, Pandian pointed out that dragging Lord Jagannath into politics is inappropriate and unpopular among the people of Odisha. He said, “Lord Jagannath has been dragged into politics so much in this election, which is not fair. People of Odisha don’t like dragging religion or Lord Jagannath into politics. You should focus on your achievements like reducing rice prices, improving infrastructure, and providing jobs. Dragging the Lord into elections shows desperation.”
Patra faced controversy on Monday after telling a local news channel that “Lord Jagannath is a devotee (bhakt) of PM Modi,” later describing it as a “slip of the tongue.” Prime Minister Modi held a roadshow in Puri with Patra and addressed two public rallies on Monday.
The 2024 Lok Sabha elections are being conducted in seven phases from April 19 to June 1, with counting and results set to be declared on June 4.