On August 20, 2025, Prime Minister Narendra Modi spoke with former Odisha Chief Minister and Biju Janata Dal (BJD) chief Naveen Patnaik to inquire about his health. The Prime Minister wished Patnaik a swift and complete recovery.

Patnaik recently underwent spine surgery in a Mumbai hospital and is expected to be discharged soon. Modi also suggested that once Patnaik recovers, he should take adequate rest.

Concerns about Naveen Patnaik's health have been a recurring theme in political discussions. In May 2024, Prime Minister Modi claimed there was a "conspiracy behind the sudden deterioration of Naveen Patnaik's health" and vowed to form a committee to inquire into the matter if the BJP formed the government in Odisha. He questioned whether the lobby running the Patnaik government was responsible for the deterioration of his health.

Patnaik responded by assuring the public that he was in perfect health and suggested that Modi simply pick up the phone to ask about his well-being. He also accused the BJP of spreading rumors about his health.

The political landscape in Odisha has been marked by personal attacks between the BJD and the BJP. Patnaik and his close aide, V. K. Pandian, have often been targets of these attacks. The BJP has also accused the BJD government of betraying Lord Jagannath and demanded to know the whereabouts of the Ratna Bhandar keys.