BJD Demands Unconditional Apology from Nishikant Dubey over Insulting Remarks on Biju Patnaik

Bhubaneswar: The Biju Janata Dal (BJD) on Monday intensified its attack on BJP MP Nishikant Dubey, condemning his remarks against legendary leader Biju Patnaik as “insulting” and demanding an immediate, unconditional apology.

Protests erupted in the state capital as the Biju Yuva Janata Dal and Chhatra Janata Dal staged demonstrations at Master Canteen Square, voicing strong opposition to Dubey’s comments.

At a press conference held at Shankha Bhavan, senior BJD leaders Debi Prasad Mishra and Pramila Mallik criticised the BJP MP, asserting that his remarks were not only factually incorrect but also deeply disrespectful to a national icon.

Mallik said Dubey’s comments reflect a “complete lack of understanding” of Biju Patnaik’s legacy and contributions. She noted that the remarks have triggered widespread outrage among people across Odisha and beyond.

Questioning the silence of BJP leaders in the state, she said that the BJP rode to power invoking Odia identity. Their continued silence on this issue exposes their double standards. Dubey must apologise unconditionally to the people of Odisha and the nation.

Mishra described Biju Patnaik as a towering freedom fighter and visionary statesman who earned global recognition for his expertise in defence, aviation, and international affairs. He emphasised that Patnaik was entrusted with sensitive national assignments and undertook several high-risk missions in service of the country.

To brand such a leader as a CIA agent is not only unfortunate but condemnable. It undermines the legacy of a true patriot, Mishra said.

Earlier, Leader of Opposition and BJD President Naveen Patnaik also lashed out at Dubey, terming his remarks “outrageous” and indicative of poor judgment.

The controversy originates from statements made by Nishikant Dubey on March 27, in which he referred to India’s foreign and defence engagements during the 1960s. He alleged that around the time of the 1962 India-China War, then Prime Minister Jawaharlal Nehru had links with the United States and the CIA, and claimed that Biju Patnaik acted as an intermediary in those engagements.