In a significant development, Kartikeyan Pandian, also known as V Karthikeyan Pandian, who emerged as a prominent figure in Odisha’s political landscape, has decided to quit active politics. “Who is VK Pandian”, this question has intrigued everyone who is interested in the political developments of national and state politics.
Early Life and Education
Born on May 29, 1974, in India, VK Pandian’s journey from an IAS officer to a key player in the Biju Janata Dal (BJD) has been nothing short of remarkable..Pandian completed his bachelor’s degree in agriculture from the Tamil Nadu Agricultural University (Madurai campus) and later obtained a master’s degree from the Indian Agricultural Research Institute, Pusa, New Delhi. His academic background laid the foundation for his illustrious career in public service.
Dedicated Public Servant
Pandian’s career took off in 2000 when he joined the Indian Administrative Service (IAS) in the Punjab Cadre. His commitment to public welfare became evident during Odisha’s devastating super cyclone in 2000. In 2002, he was appointed Sub Collector of Dharamgarh in Kalahandi district, where he championed farmers’ rights and streamlined paddy procurement.
Turning Around Rourkela Development Agency
As Additional District Magistrate in Rourkela, Pandian faced a daunting challenge. The Rourkela Development Agency (RDA) had been bankrupt for over two decades, leaving investors in despair. Under his leadership, RDA transformed into a 15-crore surplus organization, finally returning money to those who had waited for years.
Empowering Persons with Disabilities
During his tenure as the District Collector of Mayurbhanj, Pandian introduced the Single Window System for disbursement of certificates to Persons with Disability (PWD). This initiative significantly increased distribution, from 700 certificates annually to an impressive 19,000. His efforts earned him the National Award from the President of India and the prestigious Helen Keller Award.
NREGS and Financial Inclusion
As the District Collector of Ganjam, Pandian spearheaded the implementation of the National Rural Employment Guarantee Scheme (NREGS). He introduced a bank payment system for wages, ensuring direct payments to laborers. Over 1.2 lakh bank accounts were opened, promoting financial inclusion and job security.
Who is VK Pandian to former Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik?
For 12 years, Pandian served as the Private Secretary to Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik. His close association with Patnaik led to his appointment as Chairman of 5T (Transformational Initiatives) in November 2023, with the rank of a Cabinet Minister. His role involved driving transformative changes across various sectors in Odisha.
He formally joined the BJD in the presence of Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik and senior party leaders.
Controversies Surrounding VK Pandian
- Whirlwind Tours and Allegations: Pandian embarked on whirlwind tours across all 30 districts of Odisha, using the state chopper. Opposition parties accused these tours of resembling BJD rallies, raising questions about their nature and intent.
- Exceeding Authority: Both the BJP and Congress directed their attention towards VK Pandian, accusing him of exceeding his authority. The Department of Personnel and Training (DoPT) under the Union government even took notice of a complaint filed against “an IAS officer” (presumably Pandian).
- Non-Odia Identity: Pandian’s Tamil roots led to him being labeled an “outsider.” Critics attacked him over his non-Odia identity, which likely contributed to the BJD’s electoral setback.
A Change of Course
Despite his political influence, VK Pandian recently surprised everyone by retiring from active politics. In a video message, he expressed that his initial aim was to assist Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik, and now he has chosen to withdraw from active politics.
The announcement comes just days after the Biju Janata Dal (BJD) faced a significant setback in the Odisha Assembly elections.
VK Pandian, who hails from a humble family and a small village, had joined the Odisha Chief Minister’s Office 12 years ago. His dream was to serve the people through the Indian Administrative Service (IAS). Over the years, he worked tirelessly to implement Naveen Patnaik’s vision for Odisha, contributing to milestones in health, education, and poverty reduction.
In the heartfelt video message, Pandian expressed regret if his actions had contributed to the BJD’s electoral loss. He stated, “I am sorry if I have hurt anyone on this journey. I am sorry if this campaign narrative against me has had a part to play in BJD’s loss.”
#WATCH | 5T Chairman & BJD leader VK Pandian says, "…Now consciously I decide to withdraw myself from active politics. I am sorry if I have hurt anyone on this journey. I am sorry if this campaign narrative against me has had a part to play in BJD's loss…"
— ANI (@ANI) June 9, 2024
(Source: BJD) pic.twitter.com/Hf1stid8Gn
Naveen Patnaik, who had entrustedVK Pandian with crucial responsibilities, praised his dedication and hard work. “The experience and learning I had from him are for a lifetime,” Pandian said. “His expectation from me was to implement his vision for Odisha, and he successfully crossed many milestones.”
VK Pandian wife
Sujata R. Karthikeyan is the wife of Mr. VK Pandian, a senior IAS officer in Odisha, who has played a significant role in women’s empowerment through the Mission Shakti department. Under her leadership, this program has organized around 70 lakh women into self-help groups, providing them access to institutional finance. Despite controversy and a transfer, Sujata’s commitment to public service remains unwavering. She now serves as the Commissioner-Cum-Secretary of the Odia Language, Literature, and Culture Department.
While Pandian steps away from politics, his wife, IAS officer Sujata Karthikeyan, has taken a six-month child care leave. The Election Commission of India also transferred her to a non-public facing department. His exit marks the end of an era for Naveen Patnaik’s regime, leaving many wondering about the future of Odisha’s political landscape.
BJD’s performance in Odisha Assembly Elections 2024
In a closely watched electoral battle, the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has secured a historic victory in the Odisha Assembly elections. The BJP clinched 78 out of 147 seats, marking a significant shift in the state’s political landscape. The Biju Janata Dal (BJD), which has held power in Odisha since 2000, trailed behind with 51 seats.
The BJD’s performance, while not enough to retain its stronghold, remains noteworthy. Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik, who has enjoyed an uninterrupted tenure of over 24 years, faced his first electoral defeat in these assembly polls.The Congress secured 14 seats, and the Communist Party of India (Marxist) managed to win one seat. Additionally, three independent candidates emerged victorious.
The BJP’s victory signifies a shift in Odisha’s political dynamics, and it will be interesting to observe how the new government tackles pressing issues such as development, healthcare, and infrastructure. As the state transitions to a new era, citizens eagerly await the BJP’s policy initiatives and the BJD’s role as the principal opposition party.
2024 Odisha Assembly elections witnessed a fierce contest, resulting in a historic win for the BJP and a change in leadership. The BJD’s performance, though not enough to retain power, reflects its enduring influence in the state’s politics. The coming days will reveal the implications of this electoral outcome for Odisha’s future.
As the dust settles, VK Pandian’s meteoric rise and subsequent fall serve as a cautionary tale in the tumultuous world of Indian politics. The once-trusted advisor now steps away, leaving behind a legacy of controversy and unanswered questions. The question- “Who is VK Pandian and how he impacted Odisha Elections outcome” might be still interesting to people who want to do deep into the reasons of BJD’s downfall in Odisha.
VK Pandian’s journey from an IAS officer to a transformational leader of BIju Janta Dal exemplifies dedication, innovation, and service to the people of Odisha. His impact continues to resonate, leaving an indelible mark on the state’s governance and development.
