BJD MP Sulata Deo Faces Backlash Over Comments on Pahalgam Terror Attack Victims

Bhubaneswar: Biju Janata Dal (BJD) Rajya Sabha MP Sulata Deo has come under sharp criticism after allegedly questioning the statements of victims of the recent terror attack in Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir.

Deo reportedly raised doubts over the victims’ claims that terrorists selectively targeted male tourists based on their religion. “It is not possible to ask about the religion of so many tourists in such a short duration. We should not link terrorism to any particular religion,” the BJD MP said.

Her remarks sparked outrage within her own party and from opposition leaders. Senior BJD leader and former minister Debi Prasad Mishra disapproved of her comments, stating, “No one should hurt the sentiments of the family members of the slain tourists.”

Reacting strongly, senior BJP leader and former Leader of Opposition in the Odisha Assembly, Jaya Narayan Mishra, condemned Deo’s statement. “The people should teach her a lesson. She has made a mockery of the terror attack victims as well as the country,” said Mishra, a five-time MLA from Sambalpur.

Following the controversy, Deo issued an apology. “I am extremely sorry if my statement has hurt the feelings of anyone,” she said.