In a shocking incident that has sparked online outrage, Pravesh Shukla, an associate of a Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) MLA, was arrested late Tuesday night in Madhya Pradesh. The state’s Chief Minister, Shivraj Singh Chouhan, ordered the invocation of the stringent National Security Act (NSA) against Shukla after a video surfaced showing him allegedly urinating on a tribal labourer while in an inebriated state. The incident occurred in the Kubari market of Sidhi district about a week ago, but the video only came to light on Tuesday evening. The viral video captured Shukla, purportedly intoxicated, urinating on the victim while smoking a cigarette.
Following the online outrage, Chouhan took swift action and directed the administration to arrest the accused and impose the NSA against him. The move aims to ensure a thorough investigation into the incident and deliver justice. Ramakant, the father of Pravesh Shukla, claimed that his son is the representative of BJP MLA Kedarnath Shukla, but the ruling party has denied any association between the accused and the MLA. This statement has added fuel to the ongoing political slugfest in the poll-bound state, with the opposition Congress party alleging that Pravesh Shukla is indeed connected to Kedarnath Shukla.
MP Congress President Kamal Nath condemned the incident and demanded strict punishment for the accused, emphasizing that Madhya Pradesh already faces significant challenges regarding tribal atrocities. The opposition’s accusations against the ruling party and its associated members have intensified the political atmosphere surrounding the incident. Meanwhile, the Sidhi Superintendent of Police, Ravindra Verma, confirmed that an FIR has been registered against Pravesh Shukla under various sections, including 294 (using obscene language), 504 (intentional insult with intent to provoke breach of peace), and relevant sections of the Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes (Prevention of Atrocities) Act.
The arrest of Pravesh Shukla under the NSA reflects the gravity of the offense and the determination of the authorities to address the incident promptly. The invocation of this stringent act signifies the government’s commitment to ensuring justice for the victim and deterring such acts in the future. As the case progresses, all eyes remain on the investigation and subsequent legal proceedings, as justice must be served to restore faith in the justice system and condemn any form of discrimination or violence against marginalized communities.