BJP Leader's Encounter Threat Sparks Controversy Ahead of West Bengal Assembly Polls

BJP leader Dilip Ghosh has once again courted controversy in the run-up to the Assembly polls. His threat of an encounter while campaigning in Kharagpur has evoked sharp reactions from political circles. The ruling Trinamool Congress has attacked the comment as "dangerous for democracy." From the Kharagpur rally on Thursday, Dilip Ghosh said, "I will intimidate anyone who is afraid. Come forward if you have the courage." He also claimed that if voted to power, "goonda rogues will be encounter." Strict action will be taken on the lines of Uttar Pradesh. He said, "The police who are now sitting with the mafia and having tea, they will take action later." The Trinamool leadership has strongly protested his controversial statement. According to the party, such language is being used to create fear among the general public. The TMC has accused the BJP of being politically backward and trying to influence the administration. Earlier, Dilip Ghosh was accused of threatening a police officer while standing in front of the Kharagpur police station. The Trinamool Congress had lodged a complaint with the Election Commission.