New Delhi, Sept. 28: Delhi-based radio jockey Nitin, who has triggered off violent protests in Darjeeling for his alleged remarks on Prashant Tamang, says he sent “countless” SMS votes to ensure his victory in Indian Idol.

“I am myself a great fan of Prashant…. I always have and always will continue supporting Prashant and all the budding and talented singers from the north-eastern part of India,” he said in a written reply to a query from The Telegraph.

“If in this particular show, where we were celebrating Prashant’s victory in Indian Idol, any listener of my show has misinterpreted my intent and felt hurt or insulted, I am extremely sorry and apologetic. I did not intend anything like this at all.”

One of the highest paid RJ’s in Delhi, Nitin’s morning show Ulta Pulta Nitin is a hit.

Nitin is known for his wisecracks and was one of the few RJ’s to be “poached” by Red FM when the channel was launched.

Red FM maintains that “a section of the people have (sic) misinterpreted some of the statements as being insulting”.

Nitin, the channel says “used some humorous phrases” with the “sole purpose of creating joy and happiness in the morning show…without referring to any particular community in an insulting manner”.

In an attempt to douse the fire over his “humorous phrases”, Nitin apparently went on air and “apologised to everyone who have (sic) misinterpreted his remarks”.

The channel put Prashant on air on September 26. In an excerpt sent to The Telegraph by the channel, Prashant is quoted as saying: “There is nothing like this…. It’s just a misunderstanding… I listen to Red FM myself…. You should not harbour such thoughts…. Nitin has not said anything of this sort…. Everything is fine.”

The channel says it has been a “big supporter” of Prashant through his journey in the talent hunt show, which was televised nationally.

Bengal inspector-general of police (law and order) Raj Kanojia said in Calcutta a case has begun. “We have started a case against the radio jockey and a team of officials will be leaving for the channel’s Delhi office for an inquiry. Those involved will be firmly dealt with.”

Nitin said his “only aim while doing my radio show is to connect with each and every listener of mine in Delhi in the best possible manner and bring happiness and joy on their face”.