BJP Leader Dilip Ghosh Slams TMC Minister Shashi Panja as 'Drama Queen' After Violent Kolkata Clash
In a fiery outburst, Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leader Dilip Ghosh has launched a scathing attack on West Bengal minister Shashi Panja, branding her a "drama queen" in the aftermath of a violent confrontation between workers of the BJP and the ruling Trinamool Congress (TMC) in Kolkata's Girish Park area. The political spat erupted following clashes that involved stone-pelting and left multiple individuals injured, including police personnel.
Ghosh's Allegations and Historical Accusations
According to reports from news agency ANI, Ghosh alleged that Panja was "staging drama" after the clash, claiming that people she brought to the scene were beaten during the altercation. "She brought 50 people, and they all got beaten up. If she had brought 200 people, we would have beaten them all," Ghosh stated vehemently.
He further delved into historical context, accusing Panja of past misconduct. "For those who don't know the history of Shashi Panja, let me tell you. When Sudip Banerjee was arrested by the CBI, these people brought a mob of hundreds and attacked our state office. She looks innocent but is staging a drama. Drama queen," Ghosh added, referencing a previous incident to bolster his claims.
Details of the Violent Clash and Police Response
The remarks came after clashes broke out between BJP and TMC workers in the Girish Park area of north Kolkata, reportedly involving stone pelting that left several people injured. The Kolkata Police confirmed that four individuals have been arrested in connection with vandalism reported during the incident. Authorities stated that a suo motu case has been registered, clarifying that no formal complaint has been filed by either political party so far.
In a concerning development, authorities also revealed that eight police personnel were injured while attempting to control the volatile situation. Several workers from both the BJP and TMC were reported to have sustained injuries during the clashes, highlighting the intensity of the confrontation.
Counter-Allegations from TMC Minister Shashi Panja
Meanwhile, Shashi Panja countered Ghosh's claims by accusing BJP workers of attacking TMC supporters and pelting stones at her residence. She asserted that more than 50 TMC workers were injured in the confrontation, painting a different picture of the events that unfolded in Girish Park.
Political Context and Upcoming Elections
This political clash occurs as West Bengal gears up for the 2026 Assembly elections, where the All India Trinamool Congress is expected to defend its position against the Bharatiya Janata Party. The BJP had won 77 seats in the previous state elections, setting the stage for a highly contested political battle in the coming years.
Ghosh also referenced a message delivered by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, claiming it had generated enthusiasm among the public. "The Prime Minister's message yesterday has thrilled people. Any doubts they had have been dispelled," he said, linking the local incident to broader national political sentiments.
