TMC to File Formal Complaint Against BJP MLA Over Controversial Video
The Trinamool Congress (TMC) is preparing to lodge a formal complaint with the Election Commission against BJP's Bankura MLA and candidate Niladri Sekhar Dana. This action follows the emergence of a video that shows a Central Armed Police Forces (CAPF) jawan in uniform carrying lotus symbol cutouts during Dana's election campaign.
Senior TMC Leader Launches Sharp Attack on BJP
Senior TMC leader Partha Bhowmik launched a sharp attack on the BJP, terming the incident "disgraceful" and accusing the party of undermining the sanctity of uniformed services. "This is what BJP does to personnel in uniform — make them carry party flags and symbols. Can you imagine any Kolkata Police or Bengal Police personnel being made to do such a thing by a Trinamool functionary?" Bhowmik stated emphatically.
Incident Details and BJP Candidate's Response
Sources confirmed that the incident occurred earlier in the day at Machantala in Bankura district. Facing criticism, Dana initially denied the allegations but later appeared to defend the act in remarks to a television channel. "Lotus is the symbol of nationalism. Every true Indian should pick up the lotus," he said, drawing further criticism from opposition ranks.
TMC MP Expresses Concern Over Poll Integrity
TMC MP Arup Chakraborty described the development as a serious threat to the integrity of the electoral process. The party maintains that such actions violate the Model Code of Conduct and compromise the neutrality of security forces during elections.
BJP's Firm Rejection of Allegations
The BJP, however, rejected the allegation outright. District party president Prosenjit Chattopadhyay dismissed the claims as "completely baseless and politically motivated", accusing TMC of attempting to manufacture a controversy. "Trinamool is trying to spread unnecessary confusion during the election season," he asserted.
The controversy highlights ongoing tensions between political parties regarding the conduct of security personnel during election campaigns. The Election Commission is expected to review the complaint and take appropriate action based on its investigation of the video evidence.
