Dubey ji, Consult Mental Doctor;Naveen Patnaik Slams Comment Over Biju Babu
Bureau,Odishabarta
Bhubaneswar: Former Odisha Chief Minister and BJD president Naveen Patnaik on Monday launched a scathing attack on BJP MP Nishikant Dubey for alleging that legendary leader Biju Patnaik had links with the CIA during the 1962 India‑China war. Calling the remarks “outrageous,” Naveen said Dubey “needs some mental doctor’s attention.”
“I was surprised to hear such things about Biju Babu,” Naveen said. “At that time, Prime Minister Nehru placed an office next to his in Delhi while Biju Babu was still Odisha’s Chief Minister, to strategize against the Chinese. I was just 13 then, but I remember his fearlessness and how much he did to repel the attack.”
Dubey had claimed that Nehru fought the war with American money and CIA collaboration, describing Biju Patnaik as a link between Washington and New Delhi. His comments stirred outrage across Odisha, where Biju Patnaik is revered as a freedom fighter and statesman.
Facing backlash, Dubey later clarified he had not accused Biju Patnaik directly. “Biju Patnaik ji was a tall freedom fighter, respected by BJP. My remarks were aimed at the Nehru‑Gandhi family. If anyone is hurt, I can only try to explain,” he said.
The controversy has reignited political sparring in Odisha, with BJD leaders rallying behind Naveen’s defense of his father’s legacy. Analysts say the episode underscores how historical narratives continue to shape present‑day political battles, especially in a state where Biju Patnaik’s name remains synonymous with courage and nationalism.
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