Former Madhya Pradesh Home Minister Narottam Mishra has called on his supporters to respect the BJP’s choice for the Datia Assembly bye-election candidate and avoid violence. Mishra emphasized the need for peaceful protests without road blockades, following clashes between BJP workers and police that left eight officers injured.
Mishra reiterated that the party’s decision should be honored, despite his exclusion as the candidate for the July 30 bypoll. The clashes erupted as BJP supporters protested the nomination of Ashutosh Tiwari over Mishra, leading to a blockade on the Gwalior-Jhansi highway.
The violence resulted in injuries to key police personnel, including the Datia Superintendent of Police and the Bhander Sub-Divisional Police Officer. The situation escalated after a prolonged highway blockade by Mishra’s supporters demanding his candidacy for the bye-election.
Authorities, led by Datia Collector Swapnil Wankhede, attempted to persuade protesters to lift the blockade before the situation deteriorated into violence. The clashes involved stone-pelting at police officers, resulting in injuries and damage to vehicles in the area.
Superintendent of Police Mayur Khandelwal confirmed that the situation is now under control, with extensive police presence to maintain order and prevent further disturbances. Mishra, in a plea to party workers, urged against violent actions and emphasized the importance of expressing views through peaceful means.
The BJP’s decision to overlook Mishra for the ticket has sparked discontent among some party members, leading to resignations in protest. The upcoming Datia Assembly bye-election on July 30 remains a focal point of political tension.
