What led Arvind Rajbhar to defend OP Rajbhar amid ABVP protests?
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Synopsis
In the wake of significant protests led by ABVP against UP Minister Om Prakash Rajbhar, Arvind Rajbhar stepped in to mitigate tensions. With accusations of student insult flying, the SBSP leader argues against misinterpretations and claims a political conspiracy at play. The controversy has intensified, with demands for Rajbhar's removal escalating.
Key Takeaways
- Intense protests by ABVP against Om Prakash Rajbhar.
- Claims of misinterpretation of Rajbhar’s remarks.
- Opposition accused of politicizing the protests.
- Call for review of security and violence footage.
- SBSP seeks enhanced security for Rajbhar amid threats.
New Delhi, Sep 4 (NationPress) Following a day of intense protests by Akhil Bharatiya Vidyarthi Parishad (ABVP) against prominent leader and UP Minister Om Prakash Rajbhar, who faced accusations of offending students, the Suheldev Bharatiya Samaj Party (SBSP) stepped in on Thursday to ease tensions.
On Wednesday, ABVP members went as far as burning his effigy, attempting to breach his residence, and reportedly throwing stones after Rajbhar’s recent statements were perceived as labeling student activists as “gundas” in the aftermath of a police lathi charge at Shri Ram Swaroop Memorial College.
The altercation resulted in numerous student injuries, igniting a backlash from the BJP’s student faction.
In response to the uproar, SBSP National General Secretary and former minister Arvind Rajbhar insisted that the comments were “misconstrued.”
“Om Prakash Rajbhar never used the term ‘gunda.’ He merely indicated that those who violate the law would face police action. His comments were well within constitutional bounds,” he stated to reporters.
Arvind Rajbhar condemned the violent actions seen during Wednesday’s demonstration.
“The attempts to invade his home and the stone-pelting were unacceptable. Many of the participants were incited by the Opposition. Various Samajwadi Party members joined the protest to politicize the incident,” he asserted.
“I urge the authorities to review video footage and identify those responsible for the violence,” he added.
In response to the situation, Samajwadi Party leader Akhilesh Yadav tweeted that the BJP’s “divisive mindset has fractured its own ranks.”
Arvind Rajbhar dismissed Yadav's remarks as “frustration.” “This reflects Akhilesh Yadav’s mindset. He is unsettled by the NDA’s solidarity. He recognizes that as long as the PDA — Pichhde (backward), Dalit, and Alpsankhyak (minorities) — remain allied with the NDA, the Samajwadi Party cannot regain power,” he claimed.
The situation escalated further, with the Samajwadi Chhatra Sabha and NSUI voicing their support for ABVP. Student organizations even protested outside Raj Bhavan, demanding the minister’s removal from the Yogi Adityanath Cabinet.
As ABVP called on the Chief Minister of Uttar Pradesh to swiftly dismiss Rajbhar, Arvind Rajbhar accused the opposition of plotting against them.
“This is purely political maneuvering. ABVP has consistently advocated for students’ rights, and our party endorses that. However, taking a single word out of context is a tactic employed by the Opposition to tarnish his image,” he claimed.
Regarding security concerns, Arvind Rajbhar revealed that SBSP has requested Z-plus security for Om Prakash Rajbhar.
“We have reached out to Home Minister Amit Shah. We are under constant threat. The goons associated with the Samajwadi Party are attempting to defame ABVP and target us,” he alleged.
Point of View
It's imperative to recognize the complexities of the ongoing situation between ABVP and Om Prakash Rajbhar. While accusations of student insult are serious, the political motivations behind the protests cannot be overlooked. A thorough investigation is crucial to ensure justice and maintain the integrity of student rights.
NationPress
04/09/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What sparked the ABVP protests against Om Prakash Rajbhar?
The protests erupted following Rajbhar's comments perceived as insulting student activists, which prompted allegations of violence from ABVP members.
What was Arvind Rajbhar's defense of his party leader?
Arvind Rajbhar claimed that Om Prakash Rajbhar's comments were misconstrued and that he never used the term 'gunda,' emphasizing the need for law enforcement against those who break the law.
How did the opposition react to the incident?
Akhilesh Yadav of the Samajwadi Party criticized the BJP, suggesting that their divisive tactics have led to internal strife within their ranks.
What measures are being taken for the security of Om Prakash Rajbhar?
Arvind Rajbhar revealed that SBSP has requested Z-plus security for Om Prakash Rajbhar due to ongoing threats and attacks.
What are the broader implications of this controversy?
The situation highlights the intersection of politics and student activism, raising questions about the motives behind protests and the political climate in Uttar Pradesh.
