The controversy stemming from remarks made by BJP spokesperson Shehzad Poonawalla against AAP MLA Rituraj Jha during a live television debate has intensified. BJP's alliance partner in Bihar, the Janata Dal (United) [JD(U)], has now called on the BJP to take action against Poonawalla for his statements, which they claim have deeply offended the people of Poorvanchal.
JD(U) spokesperson Rajiv Ranjan condemned Poonawalla's remarks on Thursday, urging the BJP to show sensitivity in dealing with issues related to caste, religion, and community. "Shehzad Poonawalla has made a mistake. His statement has deeply angered the people of Poorvanchal. We have also taken note of his remarks. Based on his statement, we demand action against him," Ranjan stated.
The controversy erupted during a heated live television debate on Tuesday, where Poonawalla and AAP MLA Rituraj Jha exchanged sharp words. The exchange took a bitter turn when Jha called Poonawalla "Chunawalla," to which Poonawalla reportedly responded with the derogatory phrase, "Jha 2 ho aap," sparking outrage among AAP supporters and others from the Poorvanchal region.
JD(U)'s statement follows a day after BJP MP Manoj Tiwari also condemned Poonawalla's remark, stating that an apology was due. Tiwari further expressed his expectation that the party would address the matter appropriately.
In response, the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) launched a scathing attack on the BJP. The party posted a message on social media, calling the comment "an insult to the Maithili Brahmin community" and accusing Poonawalla of disrespecting the people of Poorvanchal.
