Supporters of Narottam Mishra Protest Against BJP's Candidate Decision in Datia

Protests Erupt Over Candidate Selection in Datia

On Friday and Saturday, supporters of Narottam Mishra, a former Home Minister of Madhya Pradesh and a BJP leader, staged protests. This demonstration was in response to the ruling party's decision to nominate Ashutosh Tiwari instead of Mishra for the upcoming Datia assembly by-election. Mishra had contested from this seat in 2023 but faced defeat.

In the 2023 assembly elections, Congress leader Rajendra Bharti defeated Mishra by over 7,500 votes while Mishra was serving as the state's Home Minister.

Violence and Traffic Disruptions in Datia

In Datia, Mishra's supporters clashed with police, expressing their anger over the BJP's decision to deny him a ticket for the upcoming assembly by-election. Reports indicate that several individuals were injured during these confrontations. Thousands of supporters blocked NH-44, leading to significant traffic jams and halting vehicle movement.

Amidst the turmoil, Mishra was seen leaving his residence in Dabra.

Mishra Addresses Supporters Amidst Protests

Breaking his silence on the unrest, Narottam Mishra stated that the decision lies with the party. He urged all party workers, especially those sharing videos on social media depicting violent actions, to refrain from such behavior. He emphasized that concerns should be expressed appropriately within the party framework.

Sources revealed that Mishra was deeply disappointed by the decision to nominate Tiwari, as he had anticipated being the candidate and had even purchased a nomination form.

Protesters Stand Firm on Their Demands

Officials reported that over 3,000 protesters blocked NH-44 for nearly 12 hours, resulting in injuries to the Datia Superintendent of Police and several other officers. Eventually, security forces intervened to disperse the crowd, detaining some individuals. One supporter declared that they would not cease their protests until Mishra was granted a ticket, even expressing willingness to leave the BJP over this issue.