Supporters of Ratia MLA protest remarks by BJP’s Sunita Duggal

BJP candidate Sunita Duggal’s recent speech has sparked a row in Ratia, Fatehabad. During a nomination rally, Duggal criticised local MLA Lakshman Napa, leading to a strong backlash from his supporters. Napa had left the BJP and joined the Congress recently.

The MLA’s supporters held a protest today, burning Duggal’s effigy and demanding an apology. They accused Duggal of making baseless claims that damaged Napa’s reputation. The protesters, led by Napa’s son Sumit Napa and other local leaders, expressed their anger, suggesting that Duggal’s comments were a result of frustration due to poor rally attendance.

In her speech, Duggal, while speaking in the presence of the Chief Minister, claimed that if she won in Ratia, no one would accuse the MLA of gambling, drinking or betting. She also mentioned that Napa had failed in the previous elections before being made an MLA by the BJP, implying that the party had plans for him if he remained loyal.

Reacting to the allegations, MLA Napa held a press conference in the evening, announcing plans to file a defamation case and report the matter to the Election Commission. Napa defended his record, stating that he had overseen significant development projects worth around Rs 1,000 crore in the region. He denied all allegations and emphasised his clean personal record, asserting that Duggal’s accusations were aimed at tarnishing his image.