A video capturing West Bengal Minister Akhil Giri threatening a female forest department official has ignited widespread controversy. The incident, which occurred during an encroachment removal operation, has led to sharp criticism from the opposition and calls for action against the minister.
Incident Overview
On a recent Saturday, District Forest Officer Manisha Shau and her team were engaged in removing encroachments near Tajpur sea beach in Purba Medinipur district. During this operation, Minister Akhil Giri arrived and a heated altercation ensued with Shau, who questioned his intervention.
The Threatening Video
The confrontation was recorded and shared widely, sparking outrage. In the video, Giri is seen threatening and verbally abusing Shau. His aggressive remarks included:
- “You are a government employee; bow your head [in front of me] while speaking. See what happens to you within a week.”
- “If you interfere in this issue again, I will ensure that you won’t be able to return. These goons will ensure that you won’t be able to go home at night.”
- “Mend your ways, or else I will beat you with a stick,” Giri said in Bengali.
These statements have been condemned as unacceptable, with many calling for accountability and action.
Political Reaction
The BJP has seized upon the incident, using the video to launch a fierce attack on the Trinamool Congress (TMC). The party has called for Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee to take decisive action, questioning whether Giri would face consequences for his behavior. The BJP’s social media handle demanded:
- “Will Mamata Banerjee dare to throw out this minister and put him behind bars? Will charges be filed against him for obstructing government workers and outraging the modesty of a woman?”
TMC’s Response
Trinamool Congress leader Kunal Ghosh responded by condemning Giri’s actions. He stated that both Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee and party general secretary Abhishek Banerjee are closely monitoring the situation. Ghosh emphasized:
- “We oppose Giri’s words and behaviour. It is undesirable. If he had something to say about the forest department, he could have spoken to Birbaha Hansda. Instead, the mistreatment of the woman officer is unfortunate.”
Ghosh assured that the TMC does not endorse such behavior and is committed to addressing the issue appropriately.
Minister Giri’s Defense
Giri defended his actions by alleging that the forest department is targeting only the poor, who have established small shops on forest land. He claimed that significant constructions on forest land have gone unchecked while poor individuals face unnecessary harassment.
Conclusion
The controversy surrounding Minister Akhil Giri’s abusive threats highlights ongoing tensions and challenges within West Bengal’s political landscape. The incident continues to provoke debate, with calls for accountability and a reassessment of the forest department’s enforcement practices.
