A controversial viral audio clip, allegedly featuring senior Trinamool Congress (TMC) leader Anubrata Mandal, known as Birbhum’s strongman, has ignited a political storm in West Bengal. In the audio, a voice resembling Mandal’s is heard threatening Bolpur Police Station in-charge (IC) Liton Halder, hurling verbal abuse not only at the officer but also targeting his wife and mother.
While the authenticity of the audio remains unverified, the content has sparked intense political debate and law enforcement action. When contacted, Mandal denied that the voice in the clip belonged to him. He admitted to calling the IC once, but claimed that it was Halder who insulted him and abruptly disconnected the call.
Despite Mandal’s denial, the TMC has taken internal disciplinary action, suggesting that the party considers the voice in the viral audio to be his. On Friday, TMC issued an order that signals a direct reprimand to Mandal, distancing the party from the incident.
Meanwhile, Birbhum Superintendent of Police confirmed that Halder had officially lodged a complaint, alleging verbal abuse during a phone call received two days prior. “Based on his complaint, an FIR has been filed and a formal investigation has begun,” said the SP, adding, “The police will pursue the strongest possible legal action. Every aspect is under thorough investigation.”
This incident appears to be part of a broader conflict. Just a day before the audio clip surfaced, Anubrata Mandal had publicly criticised Halder, accusing him of corruption. Speaking after a party event on Thursday, Mandal said, “Even when he goes to file an FIR, he demands money. For the past two months, I’ve repeatedly urged the SP, Additional SP and even DG Rajiv Kumar to remove him.”
His remarks suggest that despite multiple attempts, Mandal had been unsuccessful in having the IC transferred, hinting at growing friction between the politician and the police official. The viral audio, many believe, may have emerged in the aftermath of these frustrations.
The state’s principal opposition party, BJP, has seized the opportunity to attack both Mandal and Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee. State BJP President and Union Minister Sukanta Majumdar remarked, “He is the Chief Minister’s beloved son. Some parents refuse to acknowledge their children’s faults—and eventually, they face the consequences. Mamata has nurtured him and today the state is seeing the result.”
Majumdar further condemned the alleged remarks in the audio, stating, “Anubrata’s language reflects the Trinamool’s mindset towards women. These statements are not just disgraceful—they reveal a deep-rooted culture of entitlement and impunity within the party.”
As the controversy continues to gain traction, the TMC’s internal response, the police investigation and the opposition’s sharp criticism are converging into a high-stakes political battle in Bengal.
