The Bharatiya Janata Party’s (BJP) Odisha unit has intensified its criticism of Pinaki Misra, the Biju Janata Dal (BJD) MP from Puri, over his alleged involvement in the cash-for-query controversy with TMC MP Mahua Moitra. The BJP has called for Misra’s expulsion from the Naveen Patnaik-led party, citing claims made by businessman Darshan Hiranandani in his affidavit submitted to the Lok Sabha Ethics Committee.
The BJP has urged the Odisha Police’s Economic Offences Wing (EOW) to launch an investigation into Misra’s role, raising concerns and demanding an explanation from Chief Minister and BJD president Naveen Patnaik. In response, Pinaki Misra, the BJD Parliamentary Party leader, refuted the allegations as baseless and threatened legal action against the BJP for tarnishing his reputation.
Belonging to a prominent Odia Brahmin family, Misra has a long-standing political lineage, with his father and uncle having served significant roles in Indian politics and the judiciary. A seasoned lawyer, Misra has been a four-term MP from Puri, initially elected under the Congress ticket before joining the BJD in 2009. Since then, he has continued to consolidate his position within the party and has emerged as a prominent face representing the BJD in the national capital.
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