New Delhi: A public celebration following the release on bail of a BJP worker accused of assaulting a Dalit officer has drawn sharp criticism and renewed debate around accountability and equal treatment under law in Uttar Pradesh.
Munna Bahadur Singh, a local BJP worker, received a grand welcome from party supporters after his release from Mau district jail. Videos circulated on social media show supporters escorting his convoy as it travelled to Ballia. The bail was granted by the Allahabad High Court.
Singh faces charges linked to an incident on August 23, when he allegedly assaulted Lal Ji Singh, a Dalit Superintending Engineer with the state power corporation. Police records state the officer was beaten with shoes inside his office at the district headquarters. Authorities arrested Singh soon after the incident and sent him to jail.
The public welcome sparked criticism due to the nature of the allegations and the caste identity of the victim. Critics argue such displays weaken trust in institutions and send a damaging message to marginalised communities seeking justice.
Even before the bail order, senior BJP figures defended the accused. Former BJP MLA Ram Iqbal Singh stated on social media that Munna Bahadur Singh had raised power supply issues affecting several villages and was falsely implicated. He welcomed the court decision. Dharmendra Singh, brother of a state minister, also posted about attending the release event and praised party workers for their support.
Speaking to reporters, Munna Bahadur Singh described the welcome as a sign of affection from party colleagues.
