BJP leader Malay Chatterjee sparks controversy after viral picture of firing air gun on Republic Day

BJP leader Malay Chatterjee is facing scrutiny following a viral picture of him firing an air gun during Republic Day celebrations in Baruipur. The event was organized by the BJP’s Baruipur Nagar Mandal and took place on January 26. Chatterjee, who holds the position of President in the Jadavpur Organizational District of the BJP Youth Front, was photographed aiming and shooting a weapon during the ceremony. This picture, which quickly circulated on social media, led to public criticism as it appeared that Chatterjee was firing a real firearm.

In response to the backlash, Chatterjee clarified that the weapon used was not a real gun but an air gun, which is commonly used for shooting balloons at fairs. He explained that the air gun was part of the event and that the purpose was to pay tribute to the brave martyrs of India’s independence movement. Chatterjee emphasized that there was no intention of intimidating anyone and that the act was symbolic of respect for India’s freedom fighters.

Chatterjee also addressed the controversy surrounding comparisons to regions such as Manikchak, Vaishnavnagar, and English Bazar. He stated that such comparisons were not relevant to this incident, emphasizing that the BJP’s actions were intended as a tribute and not as a means of instilling fear. The BJP leader further asserted that the act should not be exaggerated, drawing a clear distinction between their intentions and the alleged intimidation tactics used by other political entities.