TNI Bureau: Contrary to the hype, speculation, and rumours, VK Pandian no longer appears to enjoy the same level of trust or access at Naveen Niwas. Over the past six months, the dynamics have changed significantly.

Naveen Patnaik is now increasingly taking decisions independently, without the involvement of Pandian or Bobby Das. Notably, three leaders from the coastal districts—despite losing in the 2024 elections—have emerged as his close confidants.

The recent alignment with the Congress during the Rajya Sabha polls is a case in point. Such a move would have been unlikely under Pandian, who has generally been perceived as having a pro-BJP stance and little inclination toward the Congress. This decision appears to have been entirely Naveen’s own.

It now seems that the Pandian couple are no longer playing a role in shaping Naveen Patnaik’s political choices. Whether Naveen can effectively navigate the evolving political landscape without their support remains to be seen.