Argus News - Congress in Odisha Faces Fresh Turmoil After Moquim’s Expulsion

Bhubaneswar, Dec 16: The Congress in Odisha has been jolted by fresh internal strife following the expulsion of senior leader and former MLA Mohammed Moquim from the party’s primary membership. His removal, officially attributed to “anti-party activities,” has not only deepened factional rifts but also reignited debates over loyalty, discipline, and dissent within the state unit.

Moquim, father of sitting Cuttack-Barabati MLA Sofia Firdous, had recently stirred a debate in the party after writing a letter to Sonia Gandhi in which he sharply criticised All India Congress Committee (AICC) President Mallikarjun Kharge, senior leader Rahul Gandhi, and Odisha Pradesh Congress Committee (OPCC) president Bhakta Charan Das. His remarks, made outside the party’s internal forums, intensified debates over leadership and discipline in the Odisha unit.  

Bhakta Das’ Stern Warning

OPCC president Das dismissed Moquim’s relevance, branding him a “corruption-tainted leader” whose lone electoral victory was annulled by the court. He criticized Moquim for questioning Rahul Gandhi and the party high command outside the proper forum, warning that indiscipline would invite strict disciplinary action.

Senior Leaders React

Veteran leader Jayadev Jena acknowledged Moquim’s past contributions but faulted him for airing grievances through letters to the media rather than internal dialogue. Another veteran Congress leader Suresh Routray echoed similar sentiments, noting that Moquim’s decision to confront the high command sealed his fate. Both leaders urged the PCC president to carry all factions along to prevent further divisions.

Rising Discord Within OPCC

The episode comes amid a series of disciplinary actions against state leaders, including suspensions of Padmakar Guru and Nihar Ranjan Behera. Differences between PCC chief Bhakta Das and Sanakhemundi MLA Ramesh Jena have further deepened perceptions of unrest, underscoring the challenges of maintaining cohesion in a party already struggling with electoral setbacks.

Balancing Discipline and Dissent

The development comes at a time when the party is already grappling with electoral setbacks and questions over its leadership strategy. While Moquim insists he was punished for “speaking the truth,” party insiders argue that public criticism of the leadership cannot be tolerated. The unfolding developments highlight the Congress’ dilemma: enforcing discipline without alienating voices of dissent, a balance crucial for its revival in Odisha’s political landscape.