Clash Between MLA Sofia Firdous and CMC Mayor

A political storm has erupted in Cuttack after Barabati-Cuttack MLA Sofia Firdous held a review meeting with Cuttack Municipal Corporation (CMC) officials without informing the mayor. The unscheduled meeting triggered a heated exchange between the two leaders, with accusations flying both personally and professionally.

Firdous Blames Mayor for City’s Problems

In her maiden term as MLA, Firdous met with the CMC commissioner and senior officials to inspect civic projects. She directly held the mayor responsible for Cuttack’s civic woes, stating: “The mayor has let Cuttack down. From broken roads to ignored public grievances, essential works remain stalled. As an MLA, it is my duty to intervene and ensure people’s problems are addressed.”

Mayor Singh Hits Back

Mayor Subash Singh, visibly irked at being sidelined, hit back sharply, branding Firdous an “accidental MLA”. He questioned her authority to conduct such reviews, remarking: “She can only advise, but CMC is under my control. Her family has polluted Cuttack by filling lakes for profit. Sadly, the people of Cuttack are left with such an MLA.”

Allegations Over Funds and Family History

Escalating the row, Singh accused Firdous of misusing the MPLAD fund by diverting resources meant for CMC zones elsewhere. He also brought up allegations against her family, citing an ongoing court case against her father as evidence of their lack of credibility in civic matters.

Citizens Caught in the Crossfire

The public spat has left Cuttack residents concerned, as governance takes a backseat to political infighting. While Firdous defends her actions as necessary accountability, Singh maintains that her interference undermines his authority. The confrontation exposes the deep rift between elected representatives, leaving citizens questioning whether leaders will rise above personal rivalries to focus on Cuttack’s progress.