Kolkata: A heated political storm erupted in the West Bengal Legislative Assembly on Monday after a controversial remark made by a state minister allegedly targeting the Indian Army sparked outrage among Opposition members.
The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), led by Leader of Opposition Suvendu Adhikari, staged a vociferous protest, demanding an unconditional apology and immediate clarification from the ruling Trinamool Congress (TMC).
The remark, reportedly made during a debate on administrative matters, was perceived by BJP legislators as “disrespectful” and “insulting” to the armed forces. The comment triggered a walkout and sloganeering inside the Assembly, with BJP MLAs accusing the TMC government of undermining national institutions.
Suvendu Adhikari, addressing the media outside the Assembly, condemned the statement and called it “unpatriotic and shameful.” He further demanded that Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee take disciplinary action against the minister in question and issue a public apology to the armed forces.
The TMC, however, maintained that the remark was misinterpreted and taken out of context. Senior party leaders urged restraint and called for a review of the Assembly proceedings before drawing conclusions.
The controversy has reignited tensions between the ruling and Opposition camps in West Bengal, with political observers noting that such incidents could influence public sentiment ahead of the upcoming civic polls.
The Indian Army, widely respected across the nation, remains a sensitive subject in political discourse, and any perceived slight often invites swift backlash.
As the Assembly session continues, all eyes are on whether the government will issue a formal clarification or whether the matter will escalate further in the days to come.