Kolkata, 03 August (H.S.): Senior BJP leader Agnimitra Paul on Monday issued a stern warning to party workers against alleged extortion, saying strict action would be taken against anyone found involved in such activities. She said no one would be given preferential treatment and those facing credible allegations could even be expelled from the party.

Paul's remarks come after similar warnings from West Bengal BJP president Samik Bhattacharya and senior party leader Dilip Ghosh, who had recently cautioned party workers against engaging in corruption or extortion.

Reiterating the party's stand, Paul said anyone found indulging in extortion would face disciplinary action. Our state president has made the party's position absolutely clear. Those involved in such activities will be shown the door. Some have already been expelled. We do not compromise on such issues, she said.

At the same time, Paul cautioned against the misuse of the party's complaint mechanism. She said action would also be taken against those who lodge false or motivated complaints through the party helpline to settle personal scores.

If someone does not wish to come forward publicly, they can register a complaint through the helpline. But if anyone tries to implicate another person with a vested agenda, their phone number will also be available and appropriate action will be taken against them, she said.

Targeting the ruling Trinamool Congress government, Paul alleged that corruption had become institutionalised under the present administration. She asserted that the BJP would not follow such practices and maintained that the party acts in accordance with the principles it publicly advocates.

Her statement reinforces the BJP leadership's recent efforts to project a zero-tolerance policy towards allegations of extortion and corruption involving its members.

Hindusthan Samachar / Satya Prakash Singh