Sasmit Patra Quits IT Panel Over “Disrespect” to Biju Patnaik
Bhubaneswar: BJD Rajya Sabha MP Sasmit Patra has resigned from the Parliamentary Standing Committee on Communications and IT, citing “disrespectful remarks” made by BJP leader Nishikant Dubey against former Odisha Chief Minister Biju Patnaik.
In his resignation letter, Patra stated that he could not serve under a leader who insulted Biju Patnaik, whom he described as a freedom fighter, visionary, and national icon.
He also took to X, condemning Dubey’s comments as “outrageous, false and irresponsible insinuations.”
The controversy stems from Dubey’s claim that during the 1962 war with China, Biju Patnaik acted as a link between the US government, CIA, and Prime Minister Nehru.
BJD leaders, including MP Subhasish Khuntia, strongly rejected the remarks, calling them unfounded and an affront to Odisha’s pride.
Patra’s resignation highlights the sensitivity surrounding Biju Patnaik’s legacy, which remains central to Odisha’s political identity and the BJD’s ideological foundation.
