Patnaik Slams Jersey Colour Change as Political Stunt

Navin Patnaik, former chief minister of Odisha, criticised the recent decision to repaint the Indian hockey team’s jerseys from the traditional blue to saffron. In a post on X, Patnaik labelled the move a “crude political stunt” that disrespects the country’s sporting soul.

He argued that the blue jersey has been the backdrop of countless celebrations – from Olympic medals to World Cup campaigns – and is deeply rooted in the nation’s collective memory. The colour, derived from the blue wheel of the national flag, symbolizes unity and pride for every Indian.

Patnaik reminded that Odisha has been the first and only state to sponsor senior and junior men’s and women’s hockey teams since 2018, a partnership now extended to 2036. He warned that altering the jersey for partisan reasons threatens the integrity of a legacy built over decades.

The former chief minister likened the blue kit to other nations’ signature colours, emphasizing that national symbols are meant to bring people together, not become tools of division.