Kolkata, Nov 7 — West Bengal Minister, Dilip Ghosh, on Saturday dismissed Trinamool MP Abhishek Banerjee’s allegation that his residence was attacked, saying that "if they will create havoc at night, someone will surely counter it" and asked who would have the time to kill the leader.
“If they create havoc there at night, someone will surely counter it. And who has the time to kill Abhishek Banerjee?” Ghosh said while reacting to the allegations made by Banerjee.
The remarks came after Abhishek Banerjee staged a sit-in protest alleging an attack on his residence on Kalighat Road in the early hours of Saturday, triggering a heated confrontation between him, his supporters and Kolkata Police.
Banerjee alleged that BJP supporters attacked his residence around 2 a.m. and pelted stones at the house. He claimed that the incident was the seventh attempt on his life in the last six months.
The allegation came amid reports of a late-night clash between BJP and Trinamool supporters outside his residence, following which police intervened to bring the situation under control.
Banerjee further alleged that BJP supporters had been conducting continuous reconnaissance of his residence for two days before the incident. He also accused the judiciary of failing to intervene despite what he described as repeated attempts on his life.
Meanwhile, reacting to Congress leader Rahul Gandhi’s remarks and his call for a debate, Ghosh questioned the Congress leader’s willingness to face questions, saying that he had never participated in a debate.
“Rahul Gandhi has never debated to date. He neither gives a chance to ask questions in front of the Press, nor does he face any questions in Parliament. He just gives his speech and leaves. Who will debate with him today, who has the time? You can debate among yourselves, with your INDIA Bloc partners,” Ghosh said.
His remarks came in response to LoP Gandhi's demand for a public debate with the Prime Minister. Challenging PM Modi, Gandhi had asked him to choose any stage or venue to discuss allegations of anti-national activities and alleged connections with foreign forces.
“24 hours have passed, Modi ji. I challenged you. You say that the Opposition is anti-national. Pick any stage, any venue, and debate me. Who is the anti-national? Who has connections with foreign forces? And what kind of connections are they? Do it as soon as possible—don't be afraid,” Gandhi had posted on X.