The new year has brought unexpected political chatter in Cuttack, centred on Barabati MLA Sofia Firdaus. Posters and greetings from the MLA are now visible across the city, but they have attracted attention for what they don’t show: the Congress party’s trademark hand symbol and photographs of the party leadership. Analysts say this could signal a growing rift within the party.
Posters Feature Sofia and Former MLA Mohammad Moquim
The posters prominently feature Sofia Firdaus alongside her father, former MLA Mohammad Moquim. Moquim, who was expelled from Congress due to alleged indiscipline, has openly criticised the party’s high command and state leadership in a letter to party president Sonia Gandhi. Observers suggest the poster campaign may be an attempt to signal autonomy from the party ahead of the 2026 elections.
Speculation of New Political Moves
Political analysts speculate that Mohammad Moquim could be planning a new regional party, focused on local welfare and addressing the frustrations of constituents. The timing of the posters, appearing at the start of the election year, has fueled speculation that Sofia and Moquim may be positioning themselves as independent political players.
Intra-Party Response
Congress members in the state have downplayed the significance of the posters, describing them as ordinary New Year greetings. However, observers argue that the absence of party symbols and top leadership images indicates a potential assertion of autonomy by Sofia Firdaus and her father.
Implications Ahead of 2026 Elections
As the 2026 elections approach, political watchers see the posters as a subtle yet pointed message. They reflect both the internal tensions within Congress and the ambitions of regional leaders seeking to carve their own path, raising questions about party cohesion in Cuttack and the broader Odisha political landscape.