At an election campaign rally for BJP AGP candidate Javed Islam, Minister Jayanta Malla Baruah urged voters to reject Congress candidate Rakibul Hussain. He likened the act of kicking a football to the need for a strong response to current challenges.
Minister Baruah’s remarks stirred controversy as he suggested that Congress leader Rakibul Hussain should be “kicked to Pakistan or Bangladesh like a football.” The inflammatory statement drew criticism from various quarters, with many condemning it as divisive and unacceptable.
The Minister’s comments came during a heated election campaign in Assam, where political rhetoric often escalates in the run-up to polls. However, Baruah’s remarks crossed a line, sparking outrage and calls for an apology.
Rakibul Hussain, the Congress candidate targeted by Baruah’s remarks, responded by condemning the Minister’s statement as derogatory and disrespectful. He called for restraint and civility in political discourse, emphasizing the need for leaders to focus on issues and policies rather than resorting to personal attacks.
The Election Commission also took cognizance of the matter, stating that such statements violate the Model Code of Conduct and undermine the integrity of the electoral process. The Commission urged political leaders to refrain from making inflammatory remarks and maintain decorum during election campaigns.
Meanwhile, Minister Baruah defended his statement, asserting that he was expressing his frustration with the Congress party’s alleged failure to address the state’s challenges effectively. He claimed that his remarks were metaphorical and should not be taken literally.
The incident highlights the growing polarization and acrimony in Indian politics, particularly during election season. With emotions running high and stakes raised, political leaders often resort to extreme rhetoric to sway voters and discredit opponents.
However, such inflammatory language only serves to deepen divisions and erode trust in democratic institutions. As the people of Assam prepare to cast their votes, it is imperative for political leaders to engage in respectful and constructive dialogue, focusing on issues that matter most to the electorate.
Minister Jayanta Malla Baruah’s remarks targeting Congress leader Rakibul Hussain have ignited a firestorm of controversy in Assam. The incident underscores the need for political leaders to exercise restraint and civility in their public statements, respecting the dignity of their opponents and the democratic process.