Tensions flared in Uttar Pradesh’s Mahoba district on Friday after BJP MLA Brajbhushan Rajput and his supporters protested over the water crisis during an event attended by Water Resources Minister Swatantra Dev Singh.
Police intervened and managed to bring the situation under control.
The MLA’s anger stemmed from the long-standing water shortage in the Charkhari Assembly constituency and the poor condition of roads damaged during ongoing pipeline-laying work.
During the programme, Rajput and his supporters engaged in a heated argument with officials in the presence of the minister, which soon escalated into a public scuffle.
The exchange of slogans and sharp words between supporters of both sides created chaos at the venue, prompting concern within the administration.
In an effort to defuse the situation, Water Resources Minister Swatantra Dev Singh met the BJP MLA at the District Magistrate’s office.
An emergency meeting was subsequently held with village heads, during which issues related to water supply and the damaged roads were discussed.
The MLA alleged that water supply had been completely disrupted in several villages and that roads were dug up and left in disrepair in the name of pipeline installation. He claimed that officials were ignoring repeated complaints, leaving the public to suffer from an acute water shortage.
The public altercation during the minister’s visit has created a stir in administrative and political circles. Following the incident, instructions have been issued to closely monitor the situation in the district.