Sambit Patra, BJP's Lok Sabha candidate in Odisha's Puri seat, sparked controversy by proclaiming "Lord Jagannath is Modi's devotee" after a rally with PM Modi.
Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik condemned the statement, calling it an insult to Lord Jagannath and Odia pride.
Patra apologized, citing a "slip of the tongue" due to heat.
The incident underscores the sensitivity of mixing religion and politics.
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