PM Modi in Odisha, questions reason behind deterioration of Naveen Patnaik’s health

PM Modi hints at a conspiracy behind Odisha CM's health, promises committee if BJP wins, amid election rally assertions.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on May 29 promised that if the BJP formed the government in Odisha, it would constitute a committee to ascertain the reason behind the "sudden" deterioration of the health condition of Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik, hinting at a "conspiracy" behind it.

Mr. Modi asserted that after a gap of five decades, a full majority government would be formed at the Centre for the third consecutive term.

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Addressing an election rally, he said, "Is there a conspiracy behind the sudden deterioration of Naveen Patnaik's health? Is the lobby that is currently running the Patnaik government on his behalf responsible for the sudden deterioration of his health condition?"

"If the BJP forms the government in Odisha after the ongoing assembly elections, it would constitute a committee to ascertain the reason behind the deterioration of Mr. Patnaik's health," Mr. Modi said.

In an apparent reference to BJD leader V.K. Pandian, who hails from Tamil Nadu and is considered close to Mr. Patnaik, said, "Entire Odisha wants an Odia chief minister."

"People of Odisha have decided to put a full stop to the 25-year rule of the BJD in the State," he said.