In a significant move, Sujata R. Karthikeyan, a former IAS officer and wife of Naveen Patnaik’s aide V.K. Pandian, has officially become a member of the Biju Janata Dal (BJD) in Odisha. She was welcomed into the party by Patnaik at an event in Bhubaneswar.
Patnaik expressed his pleasure at Sujata’s entry into the BJD, highlighting her past roles in public service and emphasizing her potential to contribute to the party’s initiatives, especially those benefiting women. He also addressed internal party dynamics and clarified his leadership role for the upcoming elections.
After joining the BJD, Sujata expressed her commitment to serving Odisha under Patnaik’s guidance, citing her prior 24-year experience working for the state. She shared her dedication to working with the party’s leadership and supporters for the betterment of Odisha.
Sujata, a former Odisha-cadre IAS officer, played a pivotal role in Mission Shakti, a women’s empowerment program initiated by Naveen Patnaik. Her efforts significantly boosted women-led enterprises and empowerment initiatives across Odisha.
