The political climate in Jalpaiguri reached a boiling point following controversial remarks made by TMC leader Abhishek Banerjee against BJP candidate and advocate Anantadeb Adhikari. Speaking at a rally for TMC candidate Krishna Das, Abhishek alleged that the BJP nominee remains intoxicated throughout the day and behaves inappropriately with women, questioning his moral character.

In a swift and fiery response, the Jalpaiguri BJP leadership hit the streets on Tuesday night, organizing a massive protest march. The saffron camp condemned the statement as a derogatory attack on a respected lawyer and a member of the Scheduled Caste community. “The ‘Big Thief’ of TMC is trying to tarnish the image of a gentleman,” stated Priti Burman, President of the BJP Mahila Morcha.

The BJP has issued a 24-hour ultimatum to Abhishek Banerjee to tender an apology. Failing this, the party has vowed to move the Election Commission and file a defamation suit in the High Court. Hundreds of supporters gathered at Kadamtala More, signaling that this personal spat is set to become a major flashpoint in the upcoming elections.