Odisha: Naveen Patnaik backs trusted aide V K Pandian again, says news of 'BJP deal' false

Naveen Patnaik defended V K Pandian against an unfounded media report alleging BJP collusion in Odisha, calling it defamatory. Patnaik praised Pandian’s integrity. On June 8, Patnaik defended Pandian after BJD’s assembly and Lok Sabha defeats. Pandian retired from politics after accusations. Patnaik reiterated support in an ‘X’ post.