Moquim and Sofia’s New Year Hoardings Spark Political Buzz in Cuttack
Cuttack witnessed an unusual political spectacle this New Year as greeting hoardings featuring expelled Congress leader Mohammed Moquim and his daughter, Barabati MLA Sofia Firdous, appeared across the city.
The banners, which carried festive wishes, prominently displayed photographs of both leaders but conspicuously omitted the Congress party symbol.
This absence has fueled speculation about the intent behind the joint appearance, especially given Moquim’s expulsion from the party for alleged anti‑party activities while Sofia remains an active Congress MLA.
Observers noted that while seasonal greetings are common, the father‑daughter pairing in this context raised eyebrows.
The sponsorship of the hoardings remains unclear, with no individual, organisation, or political party credited.
Reacting to the development, Moquim clarified that he is not associated with any political party and only learned of the hoardings through media reports.
He suggested that well‑wishers may have installed them to highlight the familial bond rather than convey political messaging.
He also pointed out that other hoardings featuring Sofia include the Congress logo and senior leaders, indicating these New Year banners may be independent gestures.
The episode has added a fresh layer of intrigue to Odisha’s political landscape, leaving many to wonder whether the hoardings were simply festive greetings or a subtle signal of shifting dynamics in Cuttack’s politics.
