The Biju Janata Dal (BJD) staged a walkout from the Rajya Sabha on Monday, protesting remarks made by BJP MP Nishikant Dubey regarding the party’s founder and former Odisha Chief Minister Biju Patnaik.
The protest began soon after the House convened, when BJD MP Sasmit Patra strongly objected to what he described as “false and disparaging” statements made against Biju Patnaik. He stated that the remarks were unacceptable and announced that the party was walking out in protest.
Resignation From Parliamentary Panel
A day earlier, Sasmit Patra had resigned from the Parliamentary Standing Committee on Communications and IT, which is chaired by Nishikant Dubey, further escalating the political tensions.
BJD’s Strong Objection
The BJD termed the comments “utterly shameful” and accused the ruling party of lowering parliamentary discourse. Although the party is not part of the NDA, it has often supported the government on key legislative matters.
Dubey’s Response
Responding to the controversy, Nishikant Dubey denied making any allegations against Biju Patnaik, stating that the BJP has always respected the former Odisha leader. He also said his remarks were being misinterpreted and insisted that he had not targeted the late leader.