Odisha Rejects Leave Extension For VK Pandian’s Wife

The BJP-led Odisha government has rejected IAS officer Sujata R Kartikeyan’s request for a six-month extension of her child care leave. Kartikeyan, wife of former CM Naveen Patnaik’s aide VK Pandian, had been on leave since May 31. The government directed her to report to office on November 27. She previously faced allegations of misusing public office during the 2024 Lok Sabha elections.