TNI Bureau: In a significant political development, Biju Janata Dal (BJD) Rajya Sabha MP Sasmit Patra has resigned from the Parliamentary Standing Committee on Communications and IT, protesting against controversial remarks made by BJP MP Nishikant Dubey regarding legendary leader Biju Patnaik.

The controversy erupted after Dubey, speaking to media, made claims linking Biju Patnaik to alleged interactions involving the United States during the 1962 India-China war era. His remarks, which also touched upon historical figures like Jawaharlal Nehru and the Dalai Lama, have triggered sharp reactions, particularly from Odisha’s political circles.

Reacting strongly, Patra termed the statements “outrageous, false and irresponsible,” expressing deep anguish over what he described as an attempt to malign the legacy of a “towering freedom fighter and visionary leader.” He emphasized that Biju Patnaik’s contribution to the nation is “beyond question” and cannot be distorted for political narratives.

“In protest, and as a matter of principle, I am resigning from the Parliamentary Standing Committee on Communications and IT under the Chairmanship of Shri Nishikant Dubey,” Patra stated. He further added that he could not, “in good conscience,” continue to serve under someone who makes “disrespectful remarks about a national icon.”

Patra also underscored that such attempts to rewrite or distort history are unacceptable and must be condemned. “The legacy of Biju Patnaik will always stand taller than petty politics,” he asserted.

The resignation has intensified the political debate, with BJD leaders rallying in defense of Biju Patnaik’s legacy, while the BJP is yet to issue a detailed response on the matter.

The episode highlights rising tensions between political parties over historical interpretations and the use of legacy figures in contemporary political discourse.