Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi showed that human kindness can rise above political divides by visiting former CM and Opposition Leader Naveen Patnaik at his residence, Naveen Niwas, on Saturday. The meeting came shortly after Patnaik’s discharge from a private hospital in Bhubaneswar, where he was treated for dehydration.
Concern Across Party Lines
Majhi was not the only one to express concern. Sources indicate that several leaders from various political parties also plan to visit the Biju Janata Dal (BJD) supremo to convey their best wishes and inquire about his health.
Naveen Patnaik’s Health Condition
The 78-year-old veteran politician and BJD president was hospitalised due to dehydration but was discharged after treatment. Since his return to Naveen Niwas, a steady stream of visitors—including politicians and supporters—have come to check on his recovery and extend their good wishes.
Symbol of Political Coexistence in Odisha
Majhi’s visit reflects a rare gesture of unity in Odisha’s otherwise polarised political landscape. His concern for Patnaik highlights the possibility of coexistence despite ideological differences between the BJP and BJD.
Not the First Gesture of Respect
This is not the first time Majhi has acknowledged Patnaik’s stature. Even before the BJP ended BJD’s long-standing rule in the recent Assembly elections, Majhi had personally visited Naveen Niwas to meet the outgoing leader ahead of taking oath as Chief Minister.