A road accident in Madhya Pradesh’s Shivpuri district has spiralled into a political controversy after a BJP MLA allegedly issued a warning to police while responding to a case involving his son, who is accused of hitting five people with a speeding SUV.
The incident in Karera, where five people were injured after being struck by a Mahindra Thar, has drawn attention not only for the crash but also for the alleged conduct of BJP MLA Preetam Lodhi, whose son Dinesh Lodhi has been booked by police.
Five injured after SUV hits bike and pedestrians
Police said the accident occurred on April 16 at around 7:30 am when a rashly driven vehicle hit a motorcycle and pedestrians, including two women.
“An accident involving a vehicle occurred in which five people, including two women, were injured. Upon learning about the incident, the Karera police station registered a case into the matter, confiscated the vehicle and took legal action against the accused Dinesh Lodhi,” said Sanjeev Mule, Additional Superintendent of Police (ASP), Shivpuri.
The vehicle involved in the incident has been seized as part of the investigation.
Victims allege accused invoked political influence
According to local accounts, the accused allegedly left the spot after the crash and went to a nearby gym. Victims claimed that when confronted, he said, “Go, I will speak to the station in-charge,” and added, “My father is an MLA, he can handle even murder cases.”
These statements have intensified the controversy surrounding the case.
MLA’s tone shifts after initial response
Soon after the incident, BJP MLA Preetam Lodhi had stated that public interest was paramount and claimed he had asked police to register an FIR. However, his stance appears to have changed.
Addressing police officers, including Karera SDOP Ayush Jakhar, the MLA said, “I want to tell the SDOP sir to first look at my background.”
The remark has brought renewed focus on his past record.
Past criminal cases resurface amid row
Records indicate that multiple cases have been registered against the MLA in the past, including serious charges such as murder and attempt to murder. He has also faced externment proceedings earlier.
His past has included allegations of assault, rioting and other offences, and earlier instances of confrontation with police.
The controversy has also put a spotlight on the record of his son, who has faced allegations in recent years, including intimidation and attempts to run over individuals.
Police confirm all injured are stable
Officials said there were no fatalities in the incident and all injured persons are stable.
“No casualty was reported in the accident. Medical check-ups of the injured were performed, and all of them were in a stable state,” the ASP added.