Raju Bista denies 15% commission charge

REZA PRADHAN

DARJEELING,: Darjeeling BJP MP Raju Bista has denied allegations that he demanded a 15 per cent commission on developmental works, saying he has lodged a complaint with the police and warning of legal action against those attempting to defame him.

The allegations surfaced after an audio clip went viral on social media, purportedly featuring a conversation between two individuals, one of whom is identified as Santosh. In the clip, the speaker allegedly claims that a 15 per cent commission is required for work orders related to the Public Health Engineering (PHE), irrigation and disaster management departments, and that the amount had to be paid to Bista.

Reacting to the allegations, Bista said the quality and clarity of the audio recording raised suspicions that it could have been deliberately staged.

“I have complained to the SP, and the person behind it has been identified. Legal action will be taken against him. If he is speaking the truth, he must produce proof,” Bista said.

He said the name of one Santosh Subba, reportedly from Panighatta or Mirik, had emerged in connection with the audio clip. Bista, however, claimed that he had never met the person and understood him to be associated with his party.

Warning against the alleged misuse of his name, Bista said he would not spare anyone attempting to defame him and would also take action against any organisation involved in tarnishing the image of the BJP.

“Anyone can make allegations and counter-allegations, but they must have proof. If such baseless allegations are made, I will take strong legal action,” he said, adding that he would submit a written complaint to the police.

The BJP MP further claimed that his growing popularity had led some political leaders, including those from his own party, to misuse his name for alleged fraudulent activities.

He appealed to the public not to pay money to anyone seeking funds in his name, cautioning people against falling prey to such alleged schemes.