Was a Political Leader Really Caught in a 'Compromising Situation' on the Delhi-Mumbai Expressway?

Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- Political accountability is essential in maintaining public trust.
- The impact of social media on political narratives is significant.
- Legal implications of public behavior can lead to severe consequences.
- Investigations into public figures must be conducted thoroughly.
- Community responses play a crucial role in shaping public opinion.
Bhopal, May 25 (NationPress) A political figure, Manohar Lal Dhakad, was apprehended on Sunday after being recorded in a “compromising situation” with a woman on the Delhi-Mumbai Expressway by a CCTV camera positioned at a nearby toll booth.
The alleged footage (IANS does not verify its authenticity) featuring the local political leader from Mandsaur, Madhya Pradesh, went viral on Saturday, igniting a flurry of discussions with political implications.
The CCTV captures ostensibly show the leader engaged in a “compromising situation” with a woman outside a vehicle, participating in an “obscene act”.
In response to the video's swift spread across social media, the Bhanpura police station in Mandsaur district took suo motu cognizance of the public nuisance and inappropriate conduct, filing a case against the individual.
“He has been detained under Sections 296, 285, and 3(5) of the Bhartiya Nyaya Samhita. However, we are delving deeper into the matter to identify who disseminated the video and their motives. Even though the footage was recorded on CCTV, those in possession of the clips must surrender them to the police. We also need to verify if others were implicated in this incident,” stated R.C. Dangi, the investigating officer and head of Bhanpura police station, in remarks to IANS.
The woman depicted in the “obscene act” has not yet been taken into custody.
“We need to execute a comprehensive investigation before determining potential legal repercussions against her. Should additional individuals be implicated, we will apply further provisions under the BNS,” the police officer elaborated.
However, the Bharatiya Janata Party has categorically denied that Dhakad is a core member of the party.
Yashpal Singh Sisodiya, the party spokesperson and a former legislator from Mandsaur, remarked: "This is an extremely objectionable and disgraceful action by the individual named Manohar Lal Dhakad and the woman. He is not even a primary member of the BJP. However, anyone can technically join the party by giving a ‘missed call’ to a designated mobile number."
Mandsaur district BJP president Rajesh Dixit also confirmed that Dhakad is not a primary member of the party.
Since the video surfaced online on the night of May 21, 2025, it has attracted considerable attention, with social media users debating its repercussions. Reportedly, the Dhakad Mahasabha Yuva Sangh has expelled him immediately.
The accused leader is affiliated with the Dhakad (Kirar) community.