A senior minister in the Arunachal Pradesh government, Ojing Tasing, has ignited a major political controversy with purported comments suggesting that government schemes would be withheld from panchayats where the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) loses in the upcoming local body elections. The opposition Congress has swiftly demanded his resignation, calling the statement "unconstitutional," while the State Election Commission has initiated a probe.
Controversial Campaign Speech Under Scrutiny
The incident unfolded on Wednesday, December 3, 2025, when Minister Ojing Tasing, who holds the portfolios of Rural Development and Panchayati Raj, was campaigning in the Lower Dibang Valley district. He was canvassing for the BJP's candidate contesting the Roing Zilla Parishad seat. Elections for Panchayati Raj institutions and municipal bodies across Arunachal Pradesh are scheduled for December 15.
A clip from his speech, which has since gone viral on social media, purportedly captures Tasing making a stark declaration. He is heard saying, "In whichever panchayat segment the BJP loses, schemes will not go. And remember, this is being said by the Panchayat minister. And I do what I say." This direct linkage of development funds to electoral outcomes has become the core of the controversy.
Official Reactions and Demands for Action
The Arunachal Pradesh Congress Committee reacted strongly to the minister's remarks. In an official statement, the party condemned the comments as a blatant threat to voters and an assault on democratic principles. "Government funds do not belong to any party, they belong to the people. Threatening voters with denial of development if they do not vote for the BJP is a direct attack on democracy, federalism, and the rights of citizens guaranteed by the Constitution of India," the Congress statement read. The party has unequivocally called for Minister Ojing Tasing's resignation.
Concurrently, the State Election Commission (SEC) has taken cognizance of the matter. SEC Secretary Taru Talo confirmed that a factual report has been sought from the Lower Dibang Valley Deputy Commissioner to ascertain the exact details of the event and the minister's comments. "We have not received any formal complaint so far. We have seen what has been shared on social media only. We have sought a factual report on what actually happened from the DC and are awaiting it," Talo stated.
Awaiting Clarification and Political Fallout
As the controversy escalates, attempts by media outlets to reach Minister Ojing Tasing for his version or clarification have been unsuccessful. He has not responded to calls or messages seeking comment. The incident has cast a shadow over the campaign for the panchayat polls, raising questions about the misuse of official position and the conditioning of public welfare on political allegiance.
The State Election Commission's report will be crucial in determining the next course of action. The political fallout from this episode is likely to intensify as the election date of December 15 approaches, with opposition parties expected to leverage the issue to question the ruling BJP's commitment to fair and democratic practices.
