A ruling BJP MLA in Tripura, Arun Chandra Bhowmik, has stoked a controversy by allegedly saying that his party activists should counter Trinamool Congress leaders in 'Talibani style' if they land at Agartala airport.
The saffron camp, however, said it is the MLA's version and not that of the BJP.
With an eye on the Tripura assembly polls in 2023, TMC leaders, including its national general secretary Abhishek Banerjee, are visiting the hilly state frequently to try and build a base and an organisation for the party which till now has been confined to West Bengal.
"The TMC is trying to harm the Biplab Kumar Deb-led government in Tripura that came to power by ending the 25-year-long Communist rule. All these are happening due to the instigation of West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee," the legislator, who represents Belonia constituency, said.
Bhowmik made this remark on Wednesday during a felicitation ceremony for newly inducted Union minister of state for Social Justice and Empowerment, Pratima Bhowmik at Belonia old town hall in South Tripura district.
"I appeal to all of you that we need to attack them in Talibani style. We need to attack them once they land at the airport here. We will protect our government led by Biplab Kumar Deb with every drop of blood," he said.
A video clip of his comments went viral on the social media, inviting wide criticism.
Reacting to his remarks, Tripura TMC leader Subal Bhowmik demanded the BJP MLA's arrest.