The Odisha Congress State executive meet reportedly witnessed a storm over Cuttack Barabati MLA Mohammed Moquim and former OPCC working president, Chiranjib Biswal’s suspension with several party workers vehemently opposing the party high command’s decision.
While several party workers and leaders came in support of Moquim and Biswal and alleged they were suspended without any discussions, several others supported the move citing the decision is wise as the duo was indulged in anti-party activities.
On the other hand, Odisha Pradesh Congress Committee president, Sarat Pattanayak refuted the claims and said no discussion on Moquim and Biswal were held during the executive committee meeting, rather issues like unemployment, price hike, student union elections, chit fund scam were discussed.
“Suspension of Moquim and Biswal are individual matters which can be discussed later. We are eyeing for a better show in the 2024 general elections and for this, we are preparing a blueprint. No one in the party is disgruntled,” Pattanayak said.
Meanwhile, hundreds of supporters of Moquim and Biswal staged a silent protest in the CDA area in Cuttack demanding reconsideration of the decision and immediate withdrawal of the suspension orders.
Attending the silent protest, the suspended Cuttack-Barabati MLA, Moquim said, “The workers who have conspired against me do not have any political base. I am not scared as I am an asset to the party. I believe the party will reconsider its decision.”
“The condition of Congress has worsened. The infighting in the party may pose a threat to the 2024 general elections. It will be difficult for the party to perform well in the polls if central leaders do not look into the matter,” said Akshay Sahoo, senior journalist.
Earlier on July 15, both Moquim and Biswal were suspended on charges of indulging in anti-party activities. Odisha Congress President, Sarat Pattanayak had complained against both the leaders before the Disciplinary Action Committee (DAC). Based on the complaint, replies were sought from both leaders. However, the DAC found the replies to be unsatisfactory following which, the committee decided to place both of them under suspension.