In Assamese, “chiprang” refers to a crowbar. In the current political context, however, it has evolved into a metaphor symbolising betrayal, covert conspiracies, and internal attempts to undermine party candidates. The phrase is now widely used to describe situations in which party leaders or workers allegedly act against their own candidates, either by aligning with rival groups or by fostering internal divisions.
Individuals accused of such actions are being labelled as traitors, further intensifying tensions within party ranks.
The controversy gained momentum after a purported phone conversation involving Diganta Kalita, a legislator from the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party representing Kamalpur, surfaced on social media. In the viral audio clip, Kalita was allegedly heard threatening another individual suspected of engaging in such internal sabotage.
The individual in question was reportedly warned of being implicated in a fabricated narcotics case, a claim that has triggered sharp political reactions and renewed concerns over intimidation and internal conflicts within parties.
Adding to the escalating situation, Durga Das Boro from the Bodoland People’s Front shared a social media post referencing the controversy, while Rahim Zibran, a candidate from the Asom Gana Parishad, addressed the issue during interactions with the media. Their remarks have further deepened the charged political atmosphere in the state.
Amid the growing controversy, Assam Bharatiya Janata Party chief and Lok Sabha Member of Parliament Dilip Saikia issued a strict advisory to all party members, including candidates and office-bearers. He urged them to refrain from using derogatory or inappropriate language on social media platforms such as Facebook.
Saikia stated that it had been observed in recent days that certain individuals associated with the party were expressing anger using terms such as “chiprang” and “traitor.” He emphasised that social media is not a platform for venting resentment and warned that such conduct runs contrary to the party’s ethos and cultural values. He further asserted that discipline is non-negotiable and that any deviation would invite strict action.
As Assam approaches a crucial electoral milestone, the emergence of “chiprang politics” underscores deep-rooted internal discord and highlights the growing challenges of maintaining cohesion within political parties during high-stakes elections.A
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