The political landscape of Odisha is witnessing a fierce confrontation between the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and the Biju Janata Dal (BJD), sparked by sexist remarks made by BJP MLA Santosh Khatua against BJD leader Lekhasri Samantsinghar. The comments have been widely condemned as misogynistic and derogatory, drawing strong reactions from Samantsinghar and former Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik, the BJD chief.

Patnaik expressed his outrage, stating that the "derogatory remarks made by BJP MLA Santosh Khatua against a respected BJD woman leader are extremely unfortunate". He further added that "attempting to assassinate a woman's character is a reflection of a perverse mentality and aimed at suppressing women's voices". Patnaik, whose 24-year reign as Chief Minister ended after the BJP's victory in the recent elections, also criticized the BJP for its perceived failure to respect women, deeming the remarks from an MP "utterly intolerable and inhumane".

Samantsinghar, who joined the BJD from the BJP shortly before the Lok Sabha and Assembly elections last year, also responded sharply, tagging Prime Minister Narendra Modi in her statement. "Dear Modiji, please listen to your MLA from Odisha talking about women politicians," she wrote. She further questioned whether Modi would still speak of "naari ka samman" (respect for women) or Operation Sindoor after hearing the remarks.

Operation Sindoor is the Indian military's response to the April 22 Pahalgam terror attack. According to sources, the operation was named by Modi, referencing the vermillion mark worn by Hindu women after marriage. Samantsinghar warned that the BJP's promises for women would "sound hollow" if action wasn't taken against misogynistic elected officials. She also suggested that the BJP's attitude towards women has contributed to an increase in violent crime against women in the state.

As of now, MLA Khatua has not responded to the criticism from BJD leaders. The BJP is reportedly examining the issue. Political commentators in Odisha suggest that this controversy marks one of the lowest points in the state's political discourse. Across party lines, many are condemning the sexist and misogynistic nature of the comments, asserting that such personal attacks should not be tolerated. Patnaik emphasized the need for accountability and action, stating that failure to act would be a disservice to the women of Odisha.

Adding to the political turmoil, another controversy involves BJP leader Jagannath Prasad, who surrendered after being linked to the mob assault of a senior government officer, Ratnakar Sahoo. Patnaik has demanded "exemplary action" against the attackers and the political leaders who allegedly orchestrated the attack. Prasad, while under arrest, maintains his innocence.

These incidents have intensified the rivalry between the BJD and BJP and sparked debates about women's safety, political accountability, and rising violence in Odisha's public sphere.