The clash underscores concerns about freedom of expression in a climate where dissenting voices are increasingly met with hostility.
Team Clarion
NAGPUR — Tensions flared during an event organised by the Andh Shraddha Nirmulan Samiti (Anti-Superstition Committee) in Nagpur on Wednesday night, as workers from the Bharatiya Janata Yuva Morcha (BJYM) attempted to disrupt the speech of Shyam Manav, the organisation’s president. The programme was part of the “Save the Constitution Maharashtra” campaign, where Manav is advocating support for the Maha Vikas Aghadi ahead of the upcoming assembly elections.
As Manav took to the stage to address the audience, he was met with a barrage of slogans from BJYM activists who accused him of making unfounded claims about changes to the Indian Constitution since 2014. The protesters shouted, “Prove that the Constitution has been changed! We will not tolerate false allegations against Devendra Fadnavis!”
Reports indicate that despite the ruckus, Manav attempted to proceed with his speech. However, the protests intensified, leading to a chaotic scene. Prominent thinker Dashrath Madhavi, who was also present at the event, witnessed the turmoil unfold.
In response to the disruption, local police intervened, escorting the BJYM workers out of the hall to restore order. Following the incident, Manav addressed the media, reflecting on the challenges of speaking out in a charged political environment.
“This is not a new thing; I am used to this kind of opposition,” he stated. “When someone stands up to speak his mind and you start shouting and creating a commotion, it is not just an attack on freedom of expression but also on democracy.”
He further questioned the intentions of the protestors, suggesting, “After the implementation of the Code of Conduct, if these people can make a fuss in this way, can we really believe they are the ones who will save the Constitution, or are they the ones who will erase it?”
This incident highlights the ongoing political tensions in Maharashtra as various factions vie for influence in the lead-up to the elections. The clash underscores concerns about freedom of expression in a climate where dissenting voices are increasingly met with hostility.
