Attacks – Journalists

A scuffle broke out on Monday (October 21, 2024) at an event led by Yogendra Yadav, a national convener of Bharat Jodo Abhiyan in Maharashtra’s Akola district. Amid his speech, the party functionaries and workers of the Vanchit Bahujan Aghadi (VBA) heckled the speakers, including Mr. Yadav, forcing police to intervene and escort them.

Two days ago, Swaraj India Party founder Mr. Yadav announced lending support to Maha Vikas Aghadi (MVA) alliance candidates in 150 constituencies of Maharashtra ahead of the upcoming assembly elections on November 20. The Maharashtra democratic front held a symposium titled ‘Samvidhan ki Raksha aur Humara Vote’ (Protection of Constitution and Our Vote). The audience consisted of Ambedkarite youth, and locals from various communities, including Adivasi.

During the campaign, the Vanchit Bahujan Aghadi workers allegedly overturned chairs, barged on the stage, and snatched the microphone from Yogendra Yadav, forcing the audience out of the venue.

The police escorted Yogendra Yadav and the other speaker, Ulka Mahajan out of the venue. They also attacked their vehicle. Social activist Ulka Mahajan condemned the event and said, “It is painful to see a party having faith in the constitution, behaving like an autocratic party.”