Barabati-Cuttack MLA Sofia Firdous has declared that she became a legislator with the blessings and love of the people and will continue working as a disciplined member of the Congress party to resolve public issues.
Responding to questions from mediapersons about the expulsion of her father and former MLA Mohammed Moquim from the Congress, Sofia stated that she does not wish to delve into that matter. “I have become an MLA due to the love and blessings of the people, and I will stay in the party to work for them,” she said. She clarified that the party in Cuttack will continue to function as it has in the past.
Sofia emphasised her commitment to public service as an MLA and expressed readiness to continue in that role moving forward.
On the other hand, sources indicate that central Congress leadership has reached out to Moquim. CWC member Jairam Ramesh and Pawan Khera have spoken with him, following earlier contact by the state in-charge. The central leaders reportedly inquired about the reasons behind Moquim’s letter, the actual cause of the dispute, and his conflict with the state Congress president. Questions were also raised regarding his writings about the AICC and Rahul Gandhi, as well as his interactions with the media.
Meanwhile, senior Congress leader Narasingha Mishra has criticised PCC president Bhakta Das’s remark, “Who is Moquim?”. Mishra said it is inappropriate for a PCC president to use such language. He opined that the ongoing developments, whether right or wrong, are damaging to the party. Currently, he is not ready to communicate with anyone and has not discussed the matter with Moquim.
Political circles are abuzz with discussions that these events have further exposed the internal discord within the Odisha Congress.
