The Arunachal Pradesh Congress has called for the resignation of Rural Development and Panchayati Raj Minister Ojing Tasing. He is accused of threatening to stop development funds in areas where BJP candidates lose in local elections. The state's panchayat and municipal polls are set for December 15. Mr. Tasing was heard in a video saying, “I don’t believe in beating around the bush. The panchayat segments where the BJP candidates lose will not get any scheme. As the Panchayati Raj Minister, I mean what I say.” This comment was made while campaigning in Roing. The BJP has won 58 of 245 zila parishad seats and 4 out of 20 wards in Itanagar Municipal Corporation uncontested. BJP leaders distanced themselves from Mr. Tasing's remarks. A senior BJP official said, “Personal opinions cannot be interpreted as the party’s official policy.” The Arunachal Pradesh Congress described the comment as “undemocratic” and “unconstitutional.” It said, “Such a statement is also an insult to the people of the State, as government funds belong to the people, not to any political party.” The Congress asked Chief Minister Pema Khandu to remove Mr. Tasing from the cabinet. Congress also called for a public apology from Mr. Tasing and petitioned the Election Commission of India to take action against him for misusing power and trying to influence voters through fear.