Reported by: Mrinal Banik
Agartala: The Tripura unit of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has issued a show-cause notice to its Boxanagar MLA Tafajjal Hossain over his alleged derogatory remarks about the food habits and lifestyle of the state’s indigenous communities, asking him to explain his position within seven days.
The notice, issued on November 11 by Tapas Bhattacharya, convener of the party’s state disciplinary committee, said the state leadership had taken note of a video that had recently gone viral on social media.
According to the notice, Hossain allegedly made objectionable and derogatory comments about the food habits and everyday lifestyle of members of the state’s tribal communities. It said the video had caused considerable resentment and concern among tribal communities and other sections of society.
The party said maintaining harmony among different communities in Tripura’s diverse social and cultural environment was the collective responsibility of every public representative.
“As an elected representative, such conduct is in no way acceptable within the dignity and responsibilities of your position,” the notice stated.
The BJP leadership also raised objections to what it described as speculative claims made by Hossain in the names of the incumbent Chief Minister and a former Chief Minister. The notice said these statements had triggered adverse reactions among people in the state.
The MLA has been asked to clarify his role and position on the issues raised and submit a written explanation to the state party office within seven days of receiving the notice.
The disciplinary committee has also sought an explanation as to why disciplinary action should not be initiated against him. The notice warned that the party would proceed in accordance with its rules if he failed to respond within the stipulated period.
The notice was issued with the approval of the BJP’s state president, and copies were forwarded to the state president, state in-charge, state organisational general secretary and the president of the Sepahijala (South) district unit.
The development comes amid political controversy over Hossain’s alleged remarks about the Tiprasa community. The MLA had subsequently apologised to the community following criticism and a police complaint over the remarks.
There was no immediate response from Hossain to the party’s show-cause notice.