Supporters of senior BJP leader Narottam Mishra blocked highways and vandalized vehicles after the party denied him a ticket for the Datia Assembly by-poll [1, 2].
The unrest highlights internal friction within the BJP in Madhya Pradesh as the party manages candidate selection for a seat vacated by a court case involving a previous legislator [1, 2].
Protests occurred on highways near Datia and in Indore [2]. Demonstrators pelted stones, vandalized vehicles, and poured petrol during the unrest [1]. These actions followed the party's decision to bypass Mishra, a former Madhya Pradesh home minister, for the candidacy [1, 2].
Despite the violence and pressure from supporters, BJP officials said there is no change in the candidate for the Datia by-poll [2]. Party officials said the decision must be respected [1, 2].
Mishra addressed the situation by calling for order among his followers. "The decision should be respected and any differences must be raised through the party's internal forums," Mishra said [1].
The Datia seat became vacant following a legal challenge that removed the previous representative [1, 2]. The resulting by-poll has become a flashpoint for local party loyalty and leadership disputes within the state's political landscape [1, 2].
“Supporters blocked highways, pelted stones, vandalised vehicles, and poured petrol.”
The violent reaction from Narottam Mishra's base suggests a significant disconnect between the BJP's central leadership and local power dynamics in Madhya Pradesh. By refusing to pivot on the candidate selection despite public unrest, the party is prioritizing institutional discipline over immediate local stability, which may impact voter turnout and party cohesion during the by-election.
