BJD Demands Apology from BJP MP Over CIA Allegations Against Biju Patnaik
In a significant political development, the Biju Janata Dal (BJD) has demanded an apology from BJP Lok Sabha member Nishikant Dubey for his controversial remarks alleging that former Odisha chief minister Biju Patnaik acted as a link between the US government, the CIA, and then Prime Minister Jawaharlal Nehru. The BJD, which carries Patnaik's name and follows his principles, has labeled these allegations as baseless and disrespectful.
BJD MP Resigns from Parliamentary Committee in Protest
BJD Rajya Sabha member Sasmit Patra escalated the matter by announcing his resignation from the parliamentary standing committee on communications and information technology, which is led by Dubey. Patra expressed deep outrage over Dubey's statements, describing Biju Patnaik as a stalwart, legend, and statesman whose contributions to the nation are beyond question.
In a post on social media platform X, Patra wrote, Deeply shocked and anguished by the outrageous, false and irresponsible insinuations against Biju Patnaik ji—a towering freedom fighter, visionary leader and son of the soil. He added that he cannot, in good conscience, continue to serve under someone who makes such disrespectful remarks about a national icon.
Dubey's Controversial Claims and Historical References
Dubey had stirred controversy by claiming that Nehru fought the entire 1962 war against China with American money and in collaboration with CIA agents. He specifically alleged that Biju Patnaik was a link between the US government, the CIA, and Nehru. To support his claims, Dubey released two letters written by Nehru referring to Patnaik, stating that Patnaik was sent for a major task and discussed defense matters, with the Charbatia airport in Odisha being used as a base for U2 aircraft.
The BJD has taken strong umbrage at these remarks, highlighting Patnaik's respected role in rescuing Indonesian freedom fighters and his pivotal contributions to global diplomacy. Other BJD MPs in Rajya Sabha, including Manas Mangaraj and Subhasish Khuntia, have also condemned Dubey's statements.
BJP's Response and Counter-Allegations
In response, the BJP has asserted that BJD MPs should have the courage to face the truth. Party spokesperson Manoj Mohapatra remarked, Truth is always bitter. He pointed out that Sasmit Patra had previously written a book containing adverse remarks against Naveen Patnaik, the son of Biju Patnaik and current leader of the BJD.
This political clash underscores the ongoing tensions between the BJD and BJP in Odisha, with historical figures becoming a focal point of contemporary debates. The demand for an apology and the resignation from the parliamentary committee highlight the intensity of the disagreement over Patnaik's legacy and the interpretation of historical events.
