Congress Protest Near CM Mohan Yadav’s Convoy in Shahdol, Collector Seen Using Baton on Worker

Shahdol: A tense situation unfolded in Madhya Pradesh’s Shahdol district on Monday when Congress workers carrying black flags reached dangerously close to the convoy of Chief Minister Mohan Yadav, who was on a one-day visit to the region. The protest, which took place near Gopalpur crossing, raised serious questions over the administration’s security arrangements.

As the Chief Minister’s convoy was moving from Lalpur Airport towards Dhanpuri, Congress workers suddenly came onto the road and began shouting slogans while waving black flags, attempting to stop the motorcade. For a brief period, the atmosphere turned highly charged, forcing the police and administrative officials to act quickly to prevent any escalation.

Security Lapse Raises Questions

The incident has been termed a major administrative lapse, as the Chief Minister’s visit was pre-scheduled and security arrangements were expected to be tight. Despite this, protesters managed to come close to the convoy, creating panic among officials and raising concerns over traffic and crowd control management.

Sources said the Congress party had already informed the administration about their protest plans, yet proper arrangements to prevent such a situation appeared to be missing.

Police Detain Protesters

Police personnel were seen rushing to clear the road and ensure the convoy could pass safely. Several protesters, including women workers, were detained and taken to the police station. Legal action is reportedly being initiated against those involved in disrupting the convoy movement.

Collector Caught on Camera Hitting Protester

The controversy intensified after a video surfaced showing Shahdol Collector Kedar Singh allegedly taking a baton from a constable and hitting a Congress worker during the protest. The footage has triggered political outrage, with opposition leaders accusing the administration of using excessive force.

The collector’s action has now become a matter of public debate, with many questioning whether such behavior from a senior administrative officer is appropriate in a democratic system.

Congress Reacts Strongly, Warns of Larger Agitation

Reacting sharply to the incident, Shahdol Congress Committee District President Ajay Awasthi accused senior officials of behaving in a brutal manner. He said the treatment of Congress workers was unacceptable and would not be tolerated in a democracy.

He further warned that the Congress party would soon plan a larger agitation in response to what it described as authoritarian conduct by the administration.

Awaiting Accountability

The incident has highlighted gaps in the district administration’s security preparedness and is expected to draw attention from higher authorities. It remains to be seen who will be held responsible for the apparent failure that allowed protesters to approach the Chief Minister’s convoy so closely.