Action sought against Panda's friend for 'derogatory' remarks on Sun temple

Legislators of ruling BJD and opposition Congress Tuesday demanded action against one Abhijit Iyer Mitra for making derogatory remarks on the Sun Temple in Konark.

As soon as the House assembled at 10.30 am, the BJD members protested against the remarks made by Mitra, who is a friend of former parliamentarian Baijayant Panda.

The ruling party members staged a dharna in the well of the House and later near Mahatma Gandhi statue on the assembly premises.

In a video uploaded on social media, Mitra is seen criticising the 13th Century temple.

Stating that Mitra has ridiculed the Sun Temple, BJD MLA Sanjay Dasburma said, "It (Mitra's video) is an insult to the state and its existence. Action should be taken against the man (Mitra)."
Leader of Opposition Narasingha Mishra said, "There are two video clips which show a non-Odia, RSS man standing in front of Konark Temple making comments."
The Congress leader said, "It hurts the sentiments of Odisha irrespective of party and religion. He says the art and sculpture are contrary to Hindu culture. This is unwarranted and condemnable."
BJP legislature party leader K V Singhdeo said, "He (Mitra) is not a BJP man. RSS has nothing to do with the proposed Ram Temple at Ayodhya. It is also not in BJP's agenda. Let us not do politics over it."