TMC MLA video on intimidating BJP supporters goes viral

An ‘old video’, he says. BJP approaches ECI against him.

A video of Trinamool Congress MLA Narendra Nath Chakraborty, where he is allegedly seen telling his party supporters to “intimidate BJP”, has gone viral on social media triggering strong reaction from the West Bengal unit of the BJP. Mr. Chakraborty is an MLA from Pandabeshwar in the Asansol Lok Sabha seat that is going for bypoll on April 12.

“Those who are staunch BJP supporters and cannot be swayed in our favour, they need to be intimidated. Tell them if you go to vote then after the elections you will have to stay at your own risk and if you don’t vote then we will consider that you have supported us. After polls you can go about your business and jobs and we will support you,” the MLA is heard saying in the video. The MLA has not denied the authenticity of the video but said it was an “old video”.

The BJP slammed the remarks and approached the State Chief Electoral Officer. Party MPs also wrote to the Election Commission of India.

“Handed over a complaint against the TMC MLA Narendra Nath Chakraborty regarding his threats to BJP supporters. Demanded strict action against him for free and fair election,” State BJP president Sukanta Majumdar said. The unit also lodged a police complaint against the TMC leader.

Minister Firhad Hakim tried to distance the party from the remarks and said the TMC has full faith in the people and does not believe in any intimidation.