Kolkata, May 14 -- A video from a public meeting held on Wednesday has gone viral, in which newly elected Cossipore-Belgachia MLA Ritesh Tiwari was heard stating that he would not work for the Muslims of the Constituency, claiming that they had not voted for him in the recently concluded Assembly election. The remarks have since triggered sharp political reactions across party lines.
In the video, Tiwari was heard saying: "In nearly 74 years of elections in this area, I am the first candidate who did not receive a single vote from the Muslim community. Those who voted for me have a right over me. With Baba Bholenath as my witness, I am not going to do a single piece of work for them."
Speaking to Millennium Post, Tiwari further said: "Funds are not always sufficient. My first priority, obviously, will be my voters. Also, the Muslims will have a second chance in the Municipal Corporation election. If they come one step towards us, we are ready to go two steps."
He further added: "Modiji said 'Sabka Saath, Sabka Vikas' (Development for all, with all), but we should not miss the 'Sabka Hisaab' (everyone's accounts will be settled) part. Accounts need to be settled now."
Tiwari had defeated Atin Ghosh from the Cossipore-Belgachia constituency. Ghosh was also serving as the Deputy Mayor of the Kolkata Municipal Corporation.
However, opposition parties have strongly condemned Tiwari's remarks, describing them as derogatory, divisive, and against the spirit of constitutional democracy.
Published by HT Digital Content Services with permission from Millennium Post.