Trinamool Congress (TMC) leader Mahua Moitra has alleged that she was subjected to harassment during a flight journey on Wednesday. In a series of posts on social media, Moitra claimed that a group of passengers chanted 'Jai Shri Ram' and 'TMC chor' (thief) slogans directed at her. The incident reportedly took place on a flight from Delhi to Kolkata.
Moitra's Account of the Incident
According to Moitra, the harassment began shortly after the flight took off. She stated that a group of passengers, seemingly coordinated, started chanting slogans targeting her. The TMC leader expressed distress over the incident, calling it a deliberate attempt to intimidate her. She also tagged the Civil Aviation Minister and the airline in her posts, demanding a thorough investigation and strict action against those responsible.
Political Reactions
The incident has sparked a political row, with the TMC rallying behind Moitra. Party leaders condemned the alleged harassment and accused the ruling BJP of fostering a culture of intolerance. On the other hand, BJP leaders dismissed Moitra's claims, questioning the veracity of her account and suggesting that she was seeking attention. The exchange of barbs has further escalated the political tension between the two parties.
Moitra, known for her outspoken criticism of the central government, has been a frequent target of online and offline attacks. This latest incident highlights the growing concerns over the safety and dignity of political figures, particularly those from opposition parties, in public spaces.
Demand for Action
Moitra has demanded that the airline and the aviation authorities take immediate action. She has also called for an FIR to be registered against the passengers involved. The TMC has announced that it will raise the issue in Parliament, seeking a statement from the government on the safety of elected representatives during travel.
The airline has not yet issued an official statement regarding the incident. However, sources indicate that the crew did not report any untoward incident during the flight. Investigations are expected to be initiated based on Moitra's complaint.
