Congress leaders revolt against Odisha chief over ‘failures’

BHUBANESWAR: A fresh spell of dissensions has started brewing in Odisha Pradesh Congress Committee (OPCC) with a host of state leaders demanding the change of the guard in the state unit.

On Wednesday, a group of top leaders of the party led by Bapi Sarkhel held a meeting here at Panthanivas and adopted a resolution seeking appointment of party Cuttack-Barabati MLA Mohammed Moquim as the new OPCC in place of Niranjan Patnaik.

“Given the fact that the party has become directionless under the leadership of present OPCC chief Niranjan Patnaik, there is little doubt that Mr Patnaik can take the responsibility ahead. Odisha Congress needs a leader who is dynamic, conventional and has an uncompromising mentality, and Mohammed Moquim is perfect for the role,” stated a release issued after the meeting.