Bhubaneswar, March 30 (NationPress) The Biju Janata Dal (BJD) vehemently criticized BJP MP Nishikant Dubey's inappropriate comments regarding the iconic Biju Patnaik, insisting on an apology from the Godda representative.

The youth and student factions of the BJD, namely the Biju Yuva Janata Dal and Chhatra Janata Dal, organized a demonstration at Master Canteen Square in Bhubaneswar to express their strong disapproval of Dubey's statements.

At a press briefing held at Shankha Bhavan, the BJD's headquarters, senior vice president Debi Prasad Mishra and Odisha Assembly's chief whip Pramila Mallik denounced Dubey's remarks, urging him to promptly deliver an unconditional apology to the people of Odisha and the nation.

Senior BJD leader Mallik remarked that Dubey demonstrates a lack of comprehension regarding Biju Babu's contributions to the country, labeling his comments as distasteful towards a revered patriot. She highlighted that the backlash from Biju Babu's numerous admirers across the state and nation was overwhelming following Dubey's disparaging remarks.

“It is regrettable that BJP leaders in the state have chosen silence on this matter. Even the 20 BJP MPs who were elected recently have remained conspicuously quiet. The BJP ascended to power in Odisha under the banner of Odia identity—this situation exposes their interpretation of that identity. Therefore, Dubey is compelled to render an unconditional apology to the citizens of Odisha and the country,” insisted Mallik.

During the press conference, senior BJD leader Mishra emphasized that Biju Babu was not only a distinguished freedom fighter but also an exceptional statesman. Mishra elaborated that the former Chief Minister of Odisha, Biju Patnaik, possessed profound knowledge in defense, aviation, and international relations, garnering him global recognition. His expertise led to his involvement in critical assignments directed by the Government of India.

“He (Biju Babu) engaged in numerous missions, often risking his life in service to the nation. To label such an individual a CIA agent is profoundly unfortunate. Making such disparaging comments about a revered freedom fighter and patriot is utterly unacceptable. Consequently, Dubey should extend an unconditional apology to the citizens of Odisha and the nation,” Mishra concluded.

Earlier in the day, the Leader of Opposition (LoP) in the Odisha Assembly and BJD president Naveen Patnaik also heavily criticized BJP MP Nishikant Dubey, suggesting that he requires “professional mental health assistance” for his outrageous remarks concerning his father, the late Biju Patnaik.

The controversy stems from remarks made by Dubey on March 27, where he discussed India's foreign and defense policies during the 1960s.

He accused former Prime Minister Nehru of having connections with the United States and its intelligence agency, the CIA, before and after the 1962 India-China War. Dubey further alleged that Biju Patnaik acted as an intermediary in these dealings, handling sensitive defense communications with American officials.