The longest absence from the state, Naveen Patnaik returns to Odisha after surgery in Mumbai – for a rawging reception. Bharat News

Patnaik, who was also the Leader of the Opposition in the Assembly, went through a medical process at a private hospital in Mumbai on 22 June. He was discharged from the hospital on Monday and was subject to medicine for a week before returning to Odisha.

Many BJD leaders, including MLAs, MPS and senior leaders were present at the airport to welcome the BJD chief.

After its defeat in the 2024 assembly and Lok Sabha elections, the regional party, which faced the internal party, has used the opportunity to activate workers to fight against the BJP government in the state.

BJD leader Debiprasad Mishra said, “The mob has shown the love of people for Naveen Babu, who has placed Odisha on the trajectory of development. Today, people prove to be a large scale to see people that he is the most popular leader in the state.”

During the 2024 elections as Patnaik’s “deteriorating health” and “advanced age”, there was an issue during elections with Prime Minister Narendra Modi, indicated on a “conspiracy” behind the falling health of the former Chief Minister of Odisha, BJD sources said that Patnaik’s return would be a slap on that sinner campaign.

In a ‘political message’ for BJD cadres, the regional party also indicated that Patnaik, after a few days of rest, would be more active and dedicate more time to party activities.

“When Naveen Babu decided to go to Mumbai for surgery, a campaign was launched by vested interests that he would not return to Odisha soon. He has returned with sound health and will soon guide us to fight against the BJP government in Odisha.”

Before going to Mumbai, Patnaik handed over the political affairs Committee (PAC) to deal with party matters. BJD sources said that the committee will continue to decide the party’s future functions.