Abdur Rahim Bakshi sparks outrage with violent speech amid tensions over migrant worker identity; BJP protests escalate in Malda
Controversial Remarks Fuel Political Tension in Bengal
In a shocking escalation of political rhetoric in West Bengal, Malda district Trinamool Congress (TMC) President Abdur Rahim Bakshi has stirred massive controversy by threatening to pour acid into the mouth of a BJP legislator. Though he didn’t name the leader, the threat was clearly aimed at BJP MLA Shankar Ghosh, referencing his past comments on Bengali migrant workers.
What Did Bakshi Say?
Addressing a public gathering on Saturday evening—organized to protest alleged mistreatment of Bengali-speaking migrant workers in other Indian states—Bakshi made the following statement:
“The one who shamelessly says that 30 lakh migrant workers of Bengal are Rohingyas or Bangladeshis… If I hear this again, I will burn your voice with acid inside your mouth. We Bengalis will not let you speak here. I will burn your face with acid.”
Past Controversies Involving Bakshi
This is not the first time Abdur Rahim Bakshi has made inflammatory remarks:
- Previously threatened to cut off the hands and feet of leaders from BJP, CPI(M), and Congress.
- Has frequently used aggressive language in political speeches to rally support.
BJP Condemns, Holds Protests in Malda
The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has sharply criticized the Trinamool Congress over Bakshi’s remarks.
Khagen Murmu, BJP MP from Malda Uttar, said:
“This is the culture of TMC—threats and intimidation. They’re desperate because they know they’re losing ground ahead of the elections.”
BJP’s Response:
- Held sit-in protests in Malda led by Khagen Murmu.
- Alleged false police cases are being filed against BJP workers in the region.
Mamata Banerjee’s Warning Ignored?
Interestingly, these comments come despite TMC supremo Mamata Banerjee’s repeated warnings to party leaders to avoid derogatory and inflammatory language.
- At a recent pre-election review meeting, Banerjee emphasized the importance of maintaining decorum to protect the party’s public image.
- Yet, leaders like Bakshi continue to defy these directives, raising questions about internal discipline within the party.
Key Takeaways
- TMC’s Abdur Rahim Bakshi made an acid attack threat against a BJP leader.
- Remarks were in response to comments calling Bengali migrant workers “Rohingyas” or “Bangladeshis”.
- BJP condemns the statement, stages protests, and accuses TMC of fear tactics.
- Mamata Banerjee’s warnings ignored, potentially harming TMC’s election prospects.
The latest outburst by a senior TMC leader underscores the increasingly toxic political climate in West Bengal, where provocative rhetoric and personal threats are overshadowing constructive debate. As the state heads toward crucial assembly elections, such inflammatory language not only undermines democratic values but also raises serious concerns about law and order, party discipline, and public accountability. Whether the leadership of the ruling party will take meaningful action—or allow such behavior to continue unchecked—remains to be seen.
