A political controversy has erupted in Odisha after remarks by BJP MP Nishikant Dubey linking former chief minister and freedom fighter Biju Patnaik to the CIA triggered sharp reactions and widespread backlash.
BJD president Naveen Patnaik strongly condemned the statement, calling it “outrageous” and saying that Dubey required the attention of a “mental doctor” for making such claims. He expressed surprise at the allegation and dismissed it as baseless, questioning the logic behind suggesting any such role for Biju Patnaik during the 1960s.
Dubey had earlier claimed that Biju Patnaik acted as a link between then Prime Minister Jawaharlal Nehru and the CIA during the India-China war. His remarks have sparked anger among political leaders and supporters in Odisha, with many viewing them as an insult to a widely respected historical figure.
Recalling the period, Naveen Patnaik said he was a teenager at the time and remembered how strongly Biju Patnaik reacted to the Chinese attack, highlighting his efforts in support of the country.
The controversy has led to political fallout within Parliament as well. BJD MP Sasmit Patra resigned from a parliamentary committee chaired by Dubey in protest. Several other BJD leaders, including MPs Manas Mangaraj, Subhasish Khuntia, Muzibulla Khan, and Niranjan Bishi, also criticised the remarks, accusing Dubey of disrespecting Odisha’s pride.
Senior BJD leader Debi Prasad Mishra demanded a formal apology, describing Biju Patnaik as a patriot and condemning the comments as deeply offensive.
The issue has since grown beyond the original claim, turning into a broader political confrontation, with tensions escalating over historical interpretation and respect for prominent regional figures.
