In the midst of controversy surrounding JD-U MP Devesh Chandra Thakurs remarks about not working for Yadavs and Muslims, BJPs newly elected MP from Andaman and Nicobar Islands, Bishnu Pada Ray, has found himself in hot water. A video has emerged showing Ray threatening voters in the Nicobar Islands with severe repercussions for not supporting him in the recent elections.The video, which began circulating on social media on June 5, a day after the Lok Sabha poll results, shows Ray addressing a public gathering in the union territory. In his speech, Ray openly warned the residents of Nicobar Islands about the consequences of their voting choices.Here is the newly elected BJP MP from Andaman and Nicobar Islands, @andamanmp , threatening the Nicobar tribes because they didnt vote for him. His name is Bishnu Pada Ray.He openly admitted to distributing alcohol to sway votes in his favour.@AndamanPolice Please ensure the… pic.twitter.com/76WigmnTNw— Team Saath Official🤝 (@TeamSaath) June 7, 2024“We will get peoples work done. But those who did not vote for us, must think …Nicobar Islands did not give me any votes. Car Nicobar, think about what is going to happen to you now,” Ray stated. He further added, “In the name of Nicobar, you will take money, drink alcohol, but not give votes. Stay alert, stay alert, stay alert. Now, your days are bad… you will not make a fool of A&N islands anymore. Your days will not be good anymore.”Communitys Response and Rays ClarificationFollowing the incident, Nicobarese elders, led by the chief tribal captain of Car Nicobar, met with Ray in Port Blair to express their concerns and congratulate him on his electoral victory. A press note released by Ray suggested that the meeting was an effort to address the communitys hurt and concerns caused by his comments.“They also apprised him of the hurt and concern across a cross-section of the community due to certain developments. The Honble MP elect spoke about deep affection for the people of Nicobar and the works he had undertaken for the community during his past tenures. He also asked the elders to forget about the past and assured them that he will work with even more commitment to resolve issues of the tribal community as and when needed,” the note said.Reactions and Political RamificationsThe video has sparked widespread debate and criticism, with many questioning Rays approach and the implications of such threats on democratic processes. The incident has added fuel to the ongoing discussion about the conduct and accountability of elected officials in addressing and respecting the electorates choices.
