The Madhya Pradesh BJP unit has issued a show-cause notice to Kamal Chauhan, president of the party's Rajmata Jijabai Mandal in Indore, over allegations that he manhandled a 15-year-old girl at a Garba pandal on 17 October 2026. The incident, captured on video and widely shared on social media, has also led to Chauhan being booked by the Heera Nagar police, triggering a political controversy in the state.

What the Video Purportedly Shows

According to reports, the incident occurred at the Kankeshwari Garba pandal, where the girl had gone with her family to participate in the festivities but was denied entry. An argument broke out between her family and event organisers. A video circulating online purportedly shows Chauhan holding the girl by the arm and pushing her during the confrontation. The girl is heard questioning his behaviour and asking why she was allegedly slapped, and the footage also appears to show her falling after being pushed.

Family members of the girl are seen demanding an explanation in the video. Some individuals accompanying the BJP leader are allegedly heard using abusive language and issuing threats to the family, reportedly challenging them to call the police. The allegations against Chauhan are subject to investigation.

BJP's Internal Action

The Madhya Pradesh BJP unit acted swiftly after the video went viral, issuing a formal show-cause notice to Chauhan and warning him. Chauhan, as mandal president, holds a grassroots-level party post. The party has not yet publicly announced any further disciplinary steps, but his continued role is now under scrutiny given the police booking.

Congress Demands Accountability

Madhya Pradesh Congress spokesperson Neelabh Shukla questioned Indore BJP city president Sumit Mishra over the party's response and demanded Chauhan's immediate removal from his post. Shukla also targeted the BJP over its stated position on women's safety and its campaign against alleged 'love jihad', drawing a pointed contrast with the current allegations involving a minor.

'The safety of girls cannot be ensured through speeches alone. It must be demonstrated through concrete action,' Shukla said. He further urged the Indore Police Commissioner to ensure an impartial investigation free from political pressure, and called for strict legal action.

Broader Political Context

The incident has come at a sensitive time, falling during the Navratri festival season when Garba pandals across Madhya Pradesh attract large crowds. This is not the first time a public-event access dispute has sparked controversy in the state. Critics argue the incident exposes a gap between political rhetoric on women's safety and the conduct of party functionaries on the ground. The Congress said the episode raises serious questions about accountability for those managing public events.

What Happens Next

The Heera Nagar police have registered a case against Chauhan, and an investigation is under way. The BJP's show-cause notice requires a response from Chauhan before further disciplinary action can be taken. Political pressure from the opposition is likely to intensify should the party delay a more decisive response.