Political Storm in Odisha: Biju Patnaik Controversy Heats Up Assembly

Opposition parties in the Odisha Assembly erupted in protest against BJP MP Nishikant Dubey's controversial remarks about former Chief Minister Biju Patnaik. The assembly witnessed demands for a censure motion and calls for unity against perceived disrespect towards the iconic leader, sparking statewide outrage and demonstrations.

The Odisha Assembly turned into a battleground on Tuesday as opposition members vocally criticized BJP MP Nishikant Dubey for derogatory remarks about the state's revered former Chief Minister, Biju Patnaik. The session saw the assembly filled with slogans and demands for a censure motion against the lawmaker.

Leading the charge, opposition legislators from BJD, Congress, and CPI(M) condemned the silence of the state's BJP government on Dubey's statement criticizing Patnaik's legacy. Deputy Opposition leader Prasana Acharya passionately argued for a debate, reflecting the widespread public discontent sparked by the issue.

The controversy has snowballed into a statewide movement, with outraged citizens staging demonstrations and burning effigies. Despite Dubey's later clarification and praise for Patnaik, calls for an unconditional apology persist, highlighting the deep-seated reverence for the former Chief Minister.

(With inputs from agencies.)