Is There a Dramatic Protest in Jhansi with Chains, Placards, and a Buffalo Leading the Outcry Against Power Outages?

Jhansi, May 24 (NationPress) In a remarkably theatrical demonstration that seized the spotlight and imagination, politicians and activists from diverse parties in Jhansi took to the streets to draw attention to the persistent power crisis affecting the region.

Amidst ongoing power outages and a strained grid, frustration has escalated to such an extent that former Union Minister Pradeep Jain Aditya and fellow protesters resorted to symbolism and satire.

At the heart of the protest, staged at Jhansi's busy Elite Chauraha, was none other than a buffalo. Yes, a buffalo.

As a local resident strolled past the protest area with his buffalo, demonstrators seized the opportunity. A placard marked “Electricity Department” was quickly draped around the animal’s neck. In what turned out to be the image of the day, Pradeep Jain Aditya, equipped with a flute-like been, stood before the buffalo and began to play—emulating the traditional act of a snake charmer.

The metaphorical message was clear: “Bhains ke aage been bajana”—playing the flute in front of a buffalo, a well-known Hindi saying used to illustrate efforts wasted on an unresponsive audience (Electricity Department).

“This is a symbol,” Jain clarified to reporters. “We are not causing harm to the animal. In fact, even buffaloes are suffering from this heat and power cuts. This issue transcends human concerns,” he asserted.

The protest, characterized by symbolic shackles and dramatic expressions, followed days of unrest. Residents claim that although Bundelkhand generates significant electricity, only a mere 10 percent reaches cities like Jhansi.

One protester chained himself in a symbolic gesture, holding signs that stated: “Give us power or imprison us instead.”

Jain, who has been leading the protest with backing from multiple political factions and social organizations, stated, “The government is in a Kumbhkarni slumber while the people here endure blackouts and intolerable heat. Today, we played the ‘flute’ in front of the system. But this is our final symbolic protest. Next, we will take our demands to the streets and to every doorstep.”

Critics attempted to frame the protest as animal cruelty; however, Jain responded firmly. “Why not ask the government about cows dying from neglect?” he challenged.

“This buffalo, too, is a victim of the same system. She joined us because she’s suffering in this heat just as the people are.”

The protest, both dramatic and unconventional, resonated with a broader sentiment of fatigue, desperation, and a plea to be heard.

As Jhansi bakes under the summer sun with minimal electricity and even less response from authorities, the lingering question is: will playing the ‘been (flute)’ finally rouse the powers that be?

“Only time and power supply will reveal the answer,” say the protesters.