Tensions within the Biju Janata Dal (BJD) escalated further on Monday after senior Rajya Sabha MP Munna Khan publicly rebuked fellow MP Sasmit Patra for his controversial stance on the Waqf Amendment Bill, accusing him of defying the party’s official position and misleading the public.
Addressing the media upon arriving in Bhubaneswar, Khan expressed deep dissatisfaction over Patra’s post-vote remarks, in which Patra claimed he supported the Bill “as per his personal conscience.” Khan called the statement misleading and contradictory to what was collectively decided at an internal Parliamentary Board meeting.
“There was a clear and unanimous decision to oppose the Waqf Bill. This was not up for interpretation. Even Naveen Babu had instructed all members to vote against it,” said Khan.
Khan condemned what he described as “double-faced politics,” warning that such behaviour would not be tolerated within the party.
“If anyone wants to join BJP, they’re free to do so. But don’t stand under the BJD banner and speak BJP’s language. This sends the wrong message to the people and to our minority communities who believe in our secular values,” he stated firmly.
The senior MP further revealed that he had attempted to reach out to Patra to understand his reasoning but received no response.
“I called him to ask why he defied the party’s stance and posted such a tweet. He didn’t answer. His silence is deeply disappointing,” Khan added.
Munna Khan emphasized that Patra’s actions have caused emotional distress, particularly within the state’s Muslim community, which has historically viewed the BJD as a party rooted in inclusivity.
“This kind of behaviour on a sensitive issue like the Waqf Bill creates confusion and hurts the very people who trust us,” he noted.
Khan has pledged to escalate the matter to BJD President Naveen Patnaik, demanding that the leadership address the issue to preserve unity and uphold party discipline.
“We can’t afford mixed signals. The party must speak in one voice, especially on issues that impact public trust. I will personally inform Naveen Babu and urge appropriate action,” he concluded.
