Political Unrest Erupts in Uttar Pradesh: Protests and Violence Follow Controversial MP Statement

Lucknow witnessed turmoil as ABVP protested against the Samajwadi Party over MP Ramji Lal Suman's remarks on Rana Sanga. The incident, which led to violence in Agra, has drawn criticism from leaders including Mayawati. Several individuals were detained, and investigations are ongoing, as political tensions escalate.

In a charged protest, members of the Akhil Bharatiya Vidyarthi Parishad (ABVP) in Lucknow took to the streets against the Samajwadi Party on Friday. The catalyst for this demonstration was a statement made by MP Ramji Lal Suman, which incited anger over comments on the historic Rajput king Rana Sanga.

Prominent voices, including Bahujan Samaj Party Chief Mayawati, lambasted the Samajwadi Party for what she termed as 'dirty politics'. In an assertive post on X, she urged the Dalit community to be wary of the political tactics employed against them, highlighting an incident in Agra as deeply concerning.

The controversy stems from Suman's remarks labeling Rana Sanga, the famed ruler of Mewar, as a 'traitor' for his alleged role in Mughal Emperor Babur's victory over Ibrahim Lodi. In response, violence broke out at Suman's Agra residence, with stone-pelting and vehicle vandalism marking a night of unrest.

Agra's law enforcement agencies, led by Assistant Commissioner of Police Sanjeev Tyagi, have detained several individuals involved in the attack. The police stated that certain members of the Karni Sena, a group known for its aggressive stances, retaliated at Suman's statement by vandalizing his property.

Political tensions further escalated as Samajwadi Party Chief Akhilesh Yadav accused Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath of being complicit in the attack on Suman's residence, noting the Chief Minister's presence in the district at the time. Yadav condemned the attack on the veteran Dalit MP, calling for accountability and action.

(With inputs from agencies.)