BJP MP Nitin Nabin’s ‘cockroach’ jibe sparks fresh outrage, while Sonam Wangchuk slams the so‑called “tukde‑tukde gang”

In a recent rally that quickly turned into a media circus, BJP MP Nitin Nabin took to the microphone and, perhaps a bit too candidly, referred to the Janata Party (CJP) as "cockroaches". The remark, while undoubtedly intended to convey frustration, landed him in a thicket of backlash from across the political spectrum.

Members of the CJP – notably spokesperson Abhijeet Dipke and his deputy Sonam Wangchuk – were swift to respond. Dipke labelled the comment “undignified and unbecoming of a parliamentarian”, urging Nabin to remember the decorum expected in public discourse. Wangchuk, who has been vocal about the dangers of sectarian politics, added a broader perspective, accusing what he termed the "tukde‑tukde gang" of deliberately trying to fracture the nation.

"We are not fighting pests, we are fighting ideas," Wangchuk said in a brief interview, his voice carrying a mix of exasperation and resolve. "When leaders resort to dehumanising language, they feed a narrative that only deepens divides. The real enemies are those who sow discord for political gain."

The phrase "tukde‑tukde gang" has become a familiar refrain among certain BJP circles, used to brand opposition forces as intent on breaking India apart. Critics argue that such branding, especially when paired with inflammatory epithets, can inflame communal tensions and erode the quality of democratic debate.

Political analysts note that Nabin’s comment reflects a broader trend of increasingly blunt rhetoric in Indian politics. While some supporters applaud the “no‑holds‑barred” approach, others warn that it risks alienating moderate voters and undermining the country's pluralistic fabric.

Meanwhile, the CJP has vowed to keep the pressure on. In a statement released shortly after the incident, they promised to “raise their voice louder than ever” against what they see as attempts to intimidate opposition through character attacks.

As the dust settles, the episode serves as a reminder that words matter, especially when spoken by public figures. Whether the controversy will fade or spark a larger conversation about civility in Indian politics remains to be seen.