BJP Demands Naveen Patnaik’s Response on MP Sulata Deo’s Remarks on President Murmu

GG News Bureau
Bhubaneswar, 17th Dec. Odisha’s ruling BJP on Tuesday demanded a response from BJD president and Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik regarding controversial remarks made by BJD MP Sulata Deo about President Droupadi Murmu in the Rajya Sabha.

During a discussion on the “Glorious Journey of 75 Years of the Constitution of India” on Monday, Sulata Deo questioned the President’s silence on specific issues, drawing criticism from the BJP. Odisha BJP spokesperson Anil Biswal accused the MP of “targeting” Murmu, who hails from Odisha.

Deo remarked, “The Honourable President is a daughter of Odisha. She has expressed her anguish over the RG Kar rape case. But why is she silent on Manipur, which has been on boil for over a year and a half? Why is she silent on Sambhal? There have been 1,250 rapes in Odisha in the last six months. Where is the President? When will she break her silence? Is this what our Constitution teaches us?”

Reacting to these statements, Biswal posted on X, “The manner in which a BJD Rajya Sabha MP dragged President Droupadi Murmu into petty politics is not acceptable. She is the pride of Odisha, and this statement has deeply hurt the people of the state.”

Biswal also questioned whether the MP’s comments reflected the official stance of the BJD or were personal opinions. “If Naveen Babu disagrees with these views, why is he silent?” he asked.

The BJP spokesperson further alleged a history of disrespect towards Murmu by the BJD, referencing incidents of power cuts during her state programmes. He added, “Now, there is an attempt to insult her in Rajya Sabha. This is unacceptable.”

The BJP reaffirmed its respect for Murmu, calling her the “pride and glory” of Odisha, and highlighted the national admiration she has garnered since becoming President. The party demanded clarity from Patnaik on whether he endorses his MP’s remarks or disassociates from them.