Days after using 'disrespective' word against AAP MLA Rituraj during a live television debate, BJP spokesperson Shehzad Poonawalla on Friday apologised to the people of Uttar Pradesh and Bihar for causing hurt by his words.
In an X post, Poonawalla issued and video statement and said, "I sincerely apologise to all my Purvanchali brothers and sisters from the bottom of my heart for the hurt and pain caused by my words. I do not wish to offer any justification for it."
"All the people of UP and Bihar are very respected by me, and I apologise once again," he said.
Poonawalla's apology comes a day after BJP's alliance partner in Bihar, JD(U) on Thursday urged the ruling party at Centre to take action against Poonawalla for causing "deep anguish among people from Poorvanchal."
In a statement, JD(U) spokesperson Rajiv Ranjan said, "Politicians should be completely sensitive while speaking on issues related to caste, religion, and community. Shehzad Poonawalla has made a mistake. His statement has deeply angered the people of Poorvanchal. We have also taken note of his remarks. Based on his statement, we demand action against him."
Before JD(U), BJP MP Monoj Tiwari, who is popular figure in UP and Bihar, criticised Poonawall's remark made against AAP MLA and demanded his apology without any further commentary on the matter.
Tiwari expressed hope that the party would address the matter appropriately.
The controversy arose during a live television debate on Tuesday, where BJP national spokesperson Shehzad Poonawalla allegedly used offensive language against an AAP legislator.
During the exchange, the BJP spokesperson and the AAP MLA engaged in a war of words. The AAP MLA referred to Poonawalla as "Chunawalla," to which the BJP spokesperson replied with the remark "Jha 2 ho aap."
Criticising the BJP over Poonawalla's remarks, the AAP took to social media, stating, "The BJP spokesperson used abusive language against Purvanchal MLA Rituraj Jha on a national channel. This is an affront to the Maithili Brahmin community and an insult to all Purvanchali people."
