Union Parliamentary Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju has issued a strong condemnation against a Delhi-based content creator for allegedly subjecting a young man from Tripura to racial harassment. Rijiju vowed that strict legal action would be taken, promising a "hard lesson" for the perpetrator.
The controversy ignited after a video circulated widely online, reportedly showing influencer Amir Shokeen directing derogatory and racially charged remarks at the youth. In the clip, Shokeen purportedly questioned the young man's nationality and made disparaging comments about his home state of Tripura.
Taking to social media, Minister Rijiju acknowledged an initial delay in lodging an official police complaint but assured the public that law enforcement agencies, including Delhi Police and Tripura Police, are coordinating to ensure accountability. "This evil man will be punished," Rijiju stated, emphasizing that those who tolerate such behavior also share responsibility for the spread of hatred.
Following intense public backlash, Shokeen posted a subsequent video online, claiming the interaction was "scripted" and occurred with an acquaintance in a cafe. He offered an apology to anyone offended, asserting he had no intention to insult the people of Tripura. However, authorities have confirmed that joint investigations and formal legal assessments are proceeding independently of the influencer's claims.
The incident has sparked widespread condemnation and political unity across party lines in Tripura. Chief Minister Manik Saha instructed the State Director General of Police to coordinate directly with Delhi Police for a thorough investigation. Leaders from various regional and national parties, including the CPI(M) and Congress, have called for stringent measures to set a firm precedent against discriminatory behavior targeting individuals from India's Northeast.
A formal complaint has also been lodged with the Tripura Police, accusing Shokeen of racial harassment, cyberbullying, and making derogatory remarks against the state's indigenous communities.