Why Was Ex-Odisha MLA Moquim Expelled From Congress?
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Synopsis
In a surprising turn of events, Mohammed Moquim has been expelled from Congress for raising concerns over party leadership. This development raises questions about the internal dynamics of the OPCC and its future direction. Read on to understand the implications of this decision.
Key Takeaways
- Mohammed Moquim expelled from Congress for alleged anti-party activities.
- His criticisms reflect ongoing issues within the party leadership.
- Moquim's letter highlights electoral failures and disconnect with grassroots workers.
- Internal dissent raises questions about Congress's future direction.
- Reactions from party leaders indicate a struggle for unity.
Bhubaneswar, Dec 15 (NationPress) In a pivotal move, the Odisha Pradesh Congress Committee (OPCC) has officially expelled former MLA and prominent figure Mohammed Moquim from the party's primary membership due to alleged involvement in 'anti-party activities'.
According to a notice released on December 13, which carries the signature of OPCC president Bhakta Charan Das, the AICC has sanctioned Moquim's expulsion, stating, "This is to inform all concerned that the AICC has approved the proposal for the expulsion of Sri Md. Moquim from the primary membership of the party due to anti-party activities."
It is important to recognize that Moquim, who is the father of current Cuttack-Barabati MLA Sofia Firdous, has recently ignited controversy within the party by openly criticizing AICC President Mallikarjun Kharge, Rahul Gandhi, and OPCC president Das in a letter addressed to Sonia Gandhi.
In his correspondence dated December 8, Moquim expressed his concern over the party's six consecutive defeats in Odisha, along with three significant losses at the national level, describing this as alarming, heartbreaking, and intolerable for dedicated party workers like him. He specifically pointed fingers at the current OPCC President Bhakta Charan Das, citing his poor electoral performance and ideological disparities with the Congress party.
Moquim remarked that Das, who assumed the presidency in 2025, has faced three back-to-back electoral failures and has exhibited alignment with a political ideology that is traditionally conflicting with Congress.
Moreover, he underscored Das's past objections to the Gandhi family during the JP movement era. Moquim also accused the OPCC president and his son of publicly supporting a separate 'Kosal State', which has stirred considerable unrest among party members in the region.
He criticized the central leadership's choices in state leadership, alleging that a pattern of poor decisions, misguided leadership selections, and the ongoing centralization of power in inappropriate hands have internally weakened the party.
Moquim lamented the growing disconnect between grassroots workers and party leaders, noting his failed attempts to meet Rahul Gandhi over the past three years.
His letter has sparked a wave of reactions within the party, with senior leaders condemning him for publicly challenging the leadership. The OPCC president, Das, without naming Moquim, had previously remarked that those maintaining ties with the BJP should exit Congress.
Point of View
The expulsion of Mohammed Moquim highlights the ongoing struggles within the Congress party in Odisha. His criticisms reflect deeper concerns about leadership effectiveness and party unity. As political dynamics shift, this incident underscores the need for the Congress to address internal dissent to maintain stability and relevance in Odisha's political landscape.
NationPress
15/12/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What led to Mohammed Moquim's expulsion from Congress?
Mohammed Moquim was expelled due to his involvement in alleged 'anti-party activities', as stated by the Odisha Pradesh Congress Committee.
Who is Mohammed Moquim?
Mohammed Moquim is a former MLA and senior leader in the Congress party, and he is the father of current Cuttack-Barabati MLA Sofia Firdous.
What criticisms did Moquim raise in his letter to Sonia Gandhi?
Moquim criticized the party's leadership, pointing out six consecutive electoral losses and voicing concerns over ideological differences and leadership decisions.
What is the significance of Moquim's expulsion?
His expulsion signifies internal discord within the Congress party, highlighting challenges in maintaining unity and addressing leadership effectiveness.
What are the reactions from other party leaders regarding Moquim's letter?
Senior leaders have criticized Moquim for publicly questioning the leadership, indicating a rift in party loyalty and support.
