A day after Tripura Chief Minister Biplab Deb irked another controversy with his comments on Punjabis and Jats, the BJP leader has apologized for the remark that Punjabis and Jats have more muscle power but are less brainy than Bengalis.
Deb in a tweet on Tuesday has said, “I had expressed the views some people hold about the Punjabi and Jat communities. My intention was not to hurt anyone. I am extremely proud of both the communities and have lived among them for some time in my life.”
"I have several friends from both these communities. If my comments have hurt the sentiments of anyone, I seek their forgiveness. I always salute the contribution of the Punjabi and Jat community in the freedom struggle of the country. And I can never imagine raising questions on the role played by these two communities in advancing India," added Biplab Deb.
The comment came while Biplab Deb was addressing a program at Agartala Press Club on Sunday. During the address, he said, Punjabis and Jats are physically strong but less brainy while Bengalis are known as very intelligent. Every community in India is known with a certain type and character, the BJP leader added.
"For Bengal or Bengalis, it is said that one should not challenge them when it is regarding intelligence. Bengalis are known as very intelligent and it is their identity," Deb was heard saying in the clip.
Whereas Punjabis and Jats are known for their physical strength, he said.
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"When we talk about the people of Punjab, we say he's a Punjabi, a Sardar. They may have less intelligence but are very strong. One can't win them over by strength but with love and affection. A large number of Jats live in Haryana. So what do people say about Jats? Jats are less intelligent but are very healthy. If one challenges a Jat, he will bring a gun from his house," Deb said.
However, the remarks drew sharp reactions from the Opposition who slammed the BJP leader over the comments.