BJP Mahila Morcha protests in UP over SP MP Lodhi's remarks on PM Modi
Synopsis
Key Takeaways
The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP)'s Mahila Morcha took to the streets across Uttar Pradesh on Thursday, 14 May, demanding action against Samajwadi Party (SP) MP Ajendra Singh Lodhi over his alleged abusive and derogatory remarks targeting Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Demonstrations were held at multiple locations, including Varanasi and Greater Noida, as the political row over Lodhi's comments continued to escalate.
What Triggered the Protests
The controversy erupted after SP MP Ajendra Singh Lodhi, a lawmaker from the Mahoba-Hamirpur-Teendwari Lok Sabha constituency, allegedly called Prime Minister Modi 'anti-national' and levelled personal attacks against him during a party workers' protest on Tuesday. The remarks were widely condemned as unparliamentary, prompting BJP workers in the region to stage counter-demonstrations and file a police complaint against the MP.
Mahila Morcha Leads the Charge
The BJP's women's wing was particularly vocal in its response. Protesters marched through Varanasi, Greater Noida, and other towns, carrying banners and raising slogans demanding accountability. Messages on the banners read: 'Hindustan won't forgive those who insult the Prime Minister, SP MP must apologise' and 'Shame on you.. Akhilesh Yadav.'
'The abusive words used by the SP MP against our Prime Minister are a matter of great shame for us. We want either an apology from him or SP Chief Akhilesh Yadav must expel him from the party,' a woman protester said.
Demands from BJP Workers
Protesters issued a two-pronged demand: a public apology from Lodhi and formal punitive action by authorities. The Mahila Morcha characterised his remarks as 'inappropriate and unacceptable,' cautioning political figures against making personalised attacks on the Prime Minister. In Greater Noida, BJP workers led by district president Abhishek Sharma staged a protest outside the district collectorate specifically targeting Lodhi.
Political Fallout and What Comes Next
The episode adds to a pattern of sharp verbal exchanges between the BJP and the SP ahead of upcoming political cycles in Uttar Pradesh. The SP has not yet issued an official response to the BJP's demands for Lodhi's expulsion or apology. With a police complaint already on record, the matter could escalate to formal proceedings if authorities decide to act on the BJP's petition. All eyes are now on whether SP leadership distances itself from Lodhi's remarks or stands by its MP.