Veteran politician and Biju Janata Dal (BJD) president Naveen Patnaik has successfully undergone spine surgery for cervical arthritis at the Kokilaben Dhirubhai Ambani Hospital in Mumbai. The 78-year-old former Odisha Chief Minister is reported to be stable, conscious, and recovering well, according to his personal physician Dr. Ramakant Panda, who led the surgical team.
š„ Surgery Details and Medical Update
The operation, which lasted nearly four hours, was performed on Sunday and targeted a two-to-three-inch section of the spine that had been causing Patnaik significant discomfort. Dr. Panda confirmed that the main procedure took less than two hours, and the leader is now under observation for 48 hours before being shifted to a private room. He is expected to be discharged within five to six days.
āWith the blessings of Lord Jagannath, Naveen Babuās operation was successful. He is fully conscious and has started talking,ā said Dr. Panda.
š Statewide Prayers and Public Support
The news of Patnaikās surgery sparked an outpouring of support across Odisha. BJD leaders, party workers, and citizens gathered at major templesāincluding Lingaraj Temple in Bhubaneswar, Jhadeswar Temple in Balasore, and Budhi Thakurani Temple in Berhampurāto offer prayers and light earthen lamps for his speedy recovery.
Bhubaneswar Mayor Sulochana Das remarked, āNaveen Patnaik is not just a political leader; he is a beloved figure for the people of Odisha. Everyone is praying for his health.ā
š§ Whatās Next?
While Patnaik remains under medical supervision in Mumbai, a 15-member BJD committee led by Debi Prasad Mishra is overseeing party affairs in his absence. The former CM is expected to return to Odisha within a week, health permitting.
Stay tuned for further updates on Naveen Patnaikās recovery and political engagements.
