Policeman Tears Off Uniform in Clash with BJP Leader Arjun Gupta

The Madhya Pradesh government and state police faced sharp criticism from the Opposition Congress on Monday, September 16, 2024, after a viral video surfaced showing a heated altercation inside the Baidhan police station in Singrauli district. The video captured Assistant Sub-Inspector (ASI) Vinod Mishra tearing off his uniform during a tense argument with BJP leader Arjun Gupta, the husband of councillor Gauri Gupta.

CCTV Footage Captures the Incident

The leaked CCTV footage from the station in-charge’s office shows officers attempting to mediate between ASI Vinod Mishra and BJP leader Arjun Gupta. The disagreement reportedly stemmed from a conflict over the construction of a drain near Mishra’s home. In the midst of the argument, ASI Mishra is seen abruptly removing his shirt, cap, and belt, as other officers try to calm the situation.

The incident occurred in February 2024, but disciplinary action was taken only after an internal investigation led by Superintendent of Police (SP) Nivedita Gupta, who ordered that Mishra’s annual increment be halted.

What Triggered the Dispute?

An officer from Baidhan police station shared that tensions escalated when Arjun Gupta allegedly made a remark implying that Mishra’s uniform could be removed. The comment seemed to aggravate the ASI, leading to his extreme reaction, as witnessed in the video.

Police Inquiry and Response

Singrauli Additional Superintendent of Police (ASP) Shiv Kumar Verma confirmed that an inquiry was initiated by SP Nivedita Gupta, which led to disciplinary action against Mishra. “The SP took action and halted Mishra’s annual increment due to his conduct,” Verma said.

When asked if any formal complaint was filed against BJP leader Arjun Gupta, ASP Verma stated, “I am unaware if ASI Mishra filed any complaint. This is a separate matter, and we will look into it if necessary.”

Opposition Congress Slams the Government

The Congress Party was quick to seize the moment, criticizing the state government over the incident. Sharing the viral video on X (formerly Twitter), the Congress alleged that BJP leader Arjun Gupta’s threats led to the ASI’s drastic actions.

“The level of policing in the state has reached zero! Crime is rampant, criminals are fearless, and police officers are either helpless or under pressure,” the Congress tweeted, further fueling the political debate.

SP Nivedita Gupta’s Statement and Further Investigations

SP Nivedita Gupta addressed the matter, explaining that a long-standing land dispute between the two parties surfaced during the investigation. While she acknowledged that ASI Mishra’s health issues (including elevated blood pressure) played a role in his behavior, she stressed that his actions were inappropriate. “I based my decision on the facts of the investigation. The uniform must be respected, regardless of any personal pressure,” Gupta said.

A separate investigation has been launched to identify how the CCTV footage was leaked to the public.

Congress Targets BJP’s Handling of Law and Order

Congress also used the incident to criticize Chief Minister Mohan Yadav, demanding that he step down from overseeing the Home Department. The party cited multiple recent cases involving police misconduct, violence against vulnerable groups, and poor handling of sensitive situations.

“How can justice be served when the police themselves are driven to tear off their uniforms under threats from BJP leader Arjun Gupta?” Congress questioned, adding to the mounting concerns about law and order under BJP governance.

Conclusion

As the viral video continues to stir controversy, the incident has intensified the debate over policing and governance in Madhya Pradesh. With disciplinary action already taken against ASI Mishra and ongoing inquiries into the footage leak, the state government remains under pressure to address the concerns raised by both the public and political opponents.

Also read: Aditi Rao Hydari and Siddharth Tie the Knot: First Wedding Photos Revealed.