New Year greeting hoardings featuring expelled Congress leader Mohammed Moquim alongside his daughter, Barabati MLA Sofia Firdous, have surfaced at several locations in Cuttack, triggering widespread political speculation.
The hoardings, which extend New Year wishes, prominently display photographs of both leaders but do not carry the Congress party symbol. Their appearance has drawn attention, particularly in light of Moquim’s recent expulsion from the party and the ongoing political developments in the state.
While New Year hoardings are a common sight during the festive season, the joint display of Moquim and his daughter—who remains a sitting Congress MLA—has raised questions about the political messaging behind the move. Observers have noted that the absence of party branding has added to the ambiguity surrounding the intent of the display.
Uncertainty also surrounds the sponsorship of the hoardings. It remains unclear whether they were put up by Moquim’s supporters, well-wishers of the MLA, or other individuals. The lack of any attribution or sponsor name on the hoardings has further fuelled speculation.
Responding to the developments, Mohammed Moquim said he was unaware of the hoardings until they appeared in public view. He stated that he is not currently associated with any political party and suggested that the displays may have been installed by supporters or admirers. “Only those who put up the hoardings can explain the intention behind it,” he said.
