Naveen Patnaik Junks 'Deteriorating Health Conspiracy' Claim By PM Modi, Read Odisha CM's Reply Here

Hours after Prime Minister Narendra Modi alleged a conspiracy behind Odisha Chief Minister and Biju Janata Dal (BJD) convenor Naveen Patnaik's deteriorating health, CM Patnaik hit back at the PM, saying he is in perfect health. On Wednesday, Prime Minister Modi, while addressing a sea of supporters in Baripada, talked about a video of Naveen Patnaik doing round the internet, which shows, deputy CM VK Pandian moving Odisha CM's shaking hand down from the podium.

Reacting to the video, PM Modi said that if voted to power, BJP will form a Special Investigation Team (SIT) to investigate why CM Patnaik's health condition is deteriorating.

"Is the lobby that is currently running the Patnaik government on his behalf responsible for the sudden deterioration of his health condition?" PM had said.

Reacting to PM's comments, 77-year-old Odisha Chief Minister said, "If he was so concerned about my health, and he has stated publicly before that I am a good friend of his, all he had to do was ring me up and ask me about my health."

"Let me assure the PM that I am in perfect health, and I have been campaigning in the state for the last month," CM said in a presser.

He also accused state BJP leaders of spreading lies in state over various issues.

"Instead of concentrating on such rumours, he (Modi) should focus on the revision of coal royalties for the state and the demand for special category status, which we have been making for years. This will benefit the people of Odisha with all the funding," CM added.