A video clip showing Congress MP Tariq Anwar being carried by villagers during a flood inspection in Katihar, Bihar, has gone viral and sparked political controversy. In the video, locals are seen wading through waterlogged fields with Anwar on their shoulders, prompting criticism from rival parties.
Reacting to the video clip, BJP National Spokesperson Shehzad Poonawalla stated in a post on X: “Sense of entitlement of Congress. Even in flood-affected areas, they want the VVIP protocol. Congress MP Tariq Anwar mocks flood relief by ‘touring’ flood-affected areas while sitting on the shoulders of people.”
However, the Katihar MP has defended the gesture, saying it was an act of affection by villagers and that Anwar was unwell at the time.
Anwar said: “Today, I inspected the flood-affected areas of Manihari and Barari. People are facing severe hardships due to the floods and river erosion. I stand with the affected families during this difficult time and appeal to the government for immediate relief and a concrete solution.”
“During the inspection of flood-affected areas, the local people, out of affection, carried me on their shoulders. Given the scorching heat and mud, it was purely an expression of their love. However, the BJP is linking this to politics and indulging in petty political games, which is unfortunate,” he added.
The Congress leader said that in Katihar, the situation in areas struggling with floods and erosion is worsening every year.
He said: “It is unfortunate that the ‘double-engine’ government of the PM and CM has not been able to provide any permanent solution so far. Even the relief and rehabilitation efforts are extremely limited. This is truly unfortunate.”