Tripura BJP issues show-cause notice to MLA over indigenous remarks
Boxanagar MLA Tafajjal Hossain must explain his alleged comments on indigenous lifestyles within seven days to avoid party action.
The ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) in Tripura issued a show-cause notice to Boxanagar MLA Tafajjal Hossain on Thursday, according to The Assam Tribune. The notice follows alleged objectionable remarks made by Hossain regarding the lifestyle and food habits of indigenous people in a video that surfaced online.
The notice, signed by Tapas Bhattacharjee, convener of the state BJP disciplinary committee, stated that the alleged statements could impact party discipline and organisational interests. Hossain has been asked to clarify his position within seven days, or the party will take appropriate action.
Chief Minister Manik Saha said the matter had been discussed with state BJP president Abhishek Debroy. Saha noted that the MLA had already apologised for the alleged misconduct, adding that the style of delivering a speech is not the same for all persons.
Leader of Opposition Jitendra Chaudhury stated that two complaints were lodged at West Agartala police station, though no FIRs had been registered. He said the CPI(M) would approach the court if an FIR is not registered regarding the remarks.
Senior Congress MLA Sudip Roy Barman also demanded that an FIR be registered against Hossain under the SC/ST (Prevention of Atrocities) Act due to the remarks targeting indigenous people.