BJP MLA Tofajjal Hossain faces disciplinary action after publicly criticising senior leaders Biplab Kumar Deb and Pratima Bhoumik. The BJP has issued a show-cause notice demanding an explanation within five days for alleged violation of party discipline in Tripura.
A political storm has erupted in Tripura’s ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) after Boxanagar MLA Tofajjal Hossain was served a show-cause notice for allegedly violating party discipline by publicly criticising senior leaders during a local event. The incident has triggered a heated debate across political and social platforms, reflecting deep undercurrents within the party’s state unit.
According to party sources, the controversy stems from Hossain’s remarks made during the closing ceremony of the MLA Cup Football Tournament at Boxanagar Mini Stadium on October 18. A video clip of his speech has gone viral on social media, drawing sharp reactions from within and outside the BJP.
While praising BJP Rajya Sabha MP and state unit president Rajib Bhattacharjee for allocating ₹50 lakh from his MPLAD funds for the development of the stadium, Hossain took a swipe at former Chief Minister and current MP Biplab Kumar Deb and former Union Minister of State Pratima Bhoumik, accusing them of not extending similar support despite repeated requests.
His comments, seen as open criticism of the party’s senior leadership, have been described as “brazen” and “disrespectful” by many within the BJP. Political observers say the tone of the speech not only embarrassed the leadership but also violated the BJP’s code of internal discipline.
BJP Acts Swiftly: Show Cause Notice Issued
In response to the growing uproar, the BJP leadership moved quickly. A show-cause notice dated October 19, signed by Tripura Pradesh General Secretary Amit Rakshit, directed Hossain to explain his comments within five days or face disciplinary action.
The letter termed his remarks as “gross indiscipline” and a “serious violation of the party’s code of conduct.” It reminded that internal grievances must be raised through official party mechanisms and not aired publicly. “Such irresponsible statements have tarnished the image of the party and embarrassed its leadership,” the notice stated.
The notice has also been forwarded to Chief Minister Dr. Manik Saha, BJP Tripura Pradesh president Rajib Bhattacharjee, and party state in-charge Dr. Rajdeep Roy for further action.
Rajib Bhattacharjee Condemns the Remarks
Reacting strongly, BJP state president Rajib Bhattacharjee condemned the MLA’s comments, stating that they were against the party’s ethos. “I strongly denounce this statement. It goes against our discipline and ethics. We do not tolerate any disrespect towards our leaders,” he said.
He further added, “Biplab Kumar Deb and Pratima Bhoumik are respected figures who have worked tirelessly to strengthen the BJP in Tripura. Any anti-party discourse or public criticism will be dealt with firmly.”
Bhattacharjee also appealed to party workers to refrain from making internal disagreements public and to maintain the dignity of the organization.
MLA’s Camp Calls It a ‘Slip of Tongue’
While the MLA himself could not be reached for a comment, sources close to Hossain claimed that his statements were unintentional. “He was overwhelmed while acknowledging the development work at the stadium and inadvertently misspoke. It was not his intention to criticise anyone,” a close associate said.
The source further emphasized that Tofajjal Hossain has always prioritized party interests and maintained discipline throughout his political career. “He has no record of making controversial remarks or acting against party lines. This appears to be a misunderstanding,” the source added.
Political Background and Implications
Hossain rose to prominence after winning the Boxanagar by-election with a record margin, following the death of CPIM MLA Samsul Haque. His victory was hailed as a significant win for the BJP in a region that had long been considered a Left stronghold.
However, political analysts believe that this controversy could have repercussions within the party, particularly at a time when BJP Tripura is focusing on consolidating its base ahead of upcoming elections. Internal rifts or public criticism, they argue, may send conflicting signals to the cadre and the electorate.
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As the five-day deadline approaches, all eyes are now on Hossain’s written reply and the BJP leadership’s subsequent decision. Whether the party opts for disciplinary action or accepts his explanation could shape the internal political narrative in the coming weeks.
For now, the episode underscores the BJP’s zero-tolerance stance on public dissent and highlights the growing sensitivity within its Tripura unit regarding loyalty and discipline.
