BJD President Calls for Apology from BJP MP Over Offensive Remarks
BJD President Naveen Patnaik has condemned BJP MP Nishikant Dubey's offensive remarks regarding Biju Patnaik, calling for an apology. The comments have ignited significant backlash across Odisha, with BJD leaders and supporters expressing outrage. Patnaik recalled the historical context of Biju Patnaik's actions during the Chinese invasion, emphasizing the need for respect towards historical figures. The controversy has led to resignations from parliamentary committees and widespread criticism of Dubey's statements. This incident highlights ongoing tensions in Odisha's political landscape.
Mar 30, 2026, 16:29 IST
BJD Leader Criticizes BJP MP's Comments
BJD President Naveen Patnaik has stated that BJP MP Nishikant Dubey requires the assistance of a mental health professional for his disrespectful remarks about freedom fighter and former Chief Minister Biju Patnaik. While condemning Dubey's comments, Patnaik told reporters outside the assembly, "I believe the BJP MP needs a mental health expert for such derogatory statements." In a statement made on March 27, Dubey alleged that during the 1960s war against China, Biju Patnaik was closely associated with former Prime Minister Jawaharlal Nehru and the CIA. Patnaik expressed his astonishment at the offensive nature of Dubey's comments regarding Biju Babu. He remarked, "I don't think Nehru opened any office next to his in Delhi while Biju Babu was still the Chief Minister of Odisha to strategize against the Chinese."
Controversy Erupts Over Dubey's Statement
Reflecting on the past, Patnaik recalled being only 13 years old during the Chinese invasion and noted how furious Biju Babu was and the measures he took to counter it. Dubey's statement has sparked outrage across Odisha, with supporters of Biju Patnaik accusing the BJP MP of dragging his name into the discussion about the Chinese war. A senior BJD leader commented that in an attempt to blame Congress and Nehru, the BJP MP has invoked Biju Patnaik's name. Meanwhile, in protest against Dubey's remarks, BJD MP Sasmit Patra resigned from the parliamentary committee he chaired. At least four other MPs—Manas Mangaraj, Subhashish Khuntia, Mujibullah Khan, and Niranjan Bishi—have criticized the BJP MP, accusing him of "disrespecting Odisha's pride."
BJD Demands Apology from BJP MP
BJD's senior vice president Debi Prasad Mishra strongly condemned Dubey's remarks and called for an apology from the BJP MP for making such "disgraceful" comments against a "patriot."