Kolkata: Suspended Trinamool Congress leader and former national spokesperson Riju Dutta has issued a public apology to Uttar Pradesh cadre IPS officer Ajay Pal Sharma over controversial remarks made during the recently concluded West Bengal Assembly elections.
In a video statement released days after his suspension from the Trinamool Congress, Dutta said his earlier comments against Sharma were made in his capacity as the party’s spokesperson and were not driven by any personal animosity. He claimed the remarks were delivered from the party headquarters and reflected the “official party line” at the time.
The controversy dates back to the Bengal election campaign when Sharma, who had been deployed as an election observer, appeared in a viral video warning alleged intimidators in Diamond Harbour and Falta. Dutta had then sharply criticised the IPS officer, accusing him of misconduct and allegedly threatening legal action against him. The comments triggered strong political reactions, particularly from Uttar Pradesh, where Sharma is known for his tough policing image.
In his apology, Dutta said he was expressing regret on the advice of legal counsel and some senior BJP leaders from Uttar Pradesh. He repeatedly maintained that his criticism was political in nature and “not personal.”
The apology comes amid growing political fallout for Dutta. The Trinamool Congress recently suspended him for six years after he publicly congratulated the BJP following its victory in West Bengal, a move that sparked internal controversy within the party.
Dutta has also indicated that he is no longer associated with any political party and now wishes to lead a “peaceful life” away from active politics
