Bhubaneswar: BJD president and Leader of Opposition in Odisha Assembly, Naveen Patnaik, will undergo treatment for cervical arthritis at a hospital in Mumbai.

Patnaik (78), a five-time former Chief Minister of Odisha, revealed this through his social media handle today.

The veteran leader’s personal doctor Ramakant Panda is coordinating with the Mumbai-based hospital.

“As advised by medical experts, I would be undergoing a procedure for cervical arthritis on 22nd of this month at Kokilaben Dhirubhai Ambani Hospital in Mumbai. My personal doctor Dr Ramakant Panda is coordinating this in Mumbai. With blessings of Lord Jagannatha and good wishes of my brothers and sisters of Odisha, looking forward to returning soon to continue to serve all of you,” said Patnaik in a Twitter (X) post.

In the absence of Patnaik, the day-to-day affairs of the Biju Janata Dal (BJD) will be handled by the Political Affairs Committee (PAC) of the party. The BJD supremo has issued an order in this regard.

Debi Prasad Mishra, senior vice president of BJD (Headquarters) will co-ordinate activities and programmes between different wings of the party, read the office order.  

Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi and Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan, meanwhile, wished for Patnaik’s speedy recovery.

“I am concerned about Leader of Opposition Naveen Patnaik’s health. I pray before Lord Jagannath for successful treatment and his speedy recovery,” said the Chief Minister in a Twitter (X) post. 

“Best wishes for a smooth and successful procedure and a speedy recovery. May Mahaprabhu Jagannath bless you with vigour and vitality,” said Pradhan in a social media (X) post.