Raebareli, Uttar Pradesh – The recent assault on former Uttar Pradesh minister Swami Prasad Maurya has taken a controversial turn after one of the accused was publicly rewarded. According to reports, the Savarn Army, a caste based organisation, presented a cheque of ₹11 lakh to Rohit Dwivedi, one of the two men arrested for slapping Maurya during a public event.
The incident occurred in Raebareli, where Shivam Yadav and Rohit Dwivedi allegedly confronted and physically attacked the senior politician. Both were detained by police and later granted bail. Soon after his release, Rohit Dwivedi was felicitated, and the ₹11 lakh reward was handed over to him by members of the Savarn Army in the presence of supporters.
Adding to the controversy, Ashish Tiwari, a social activist reportedly linked with the Savarn Army, announced an even larger bounty: ₹21 lakh for anyone who hits Swami Prasad Maurya with a shoe. The announcement, made publicly, has been met with strong criticism from political leaders, activists, and legal experts, who warn that such actions promote vigilantism and undermine the rule of law.
No Karni Sena Link to Attackers
While initial rumours suggested that Shivam Yadav and Rohit Dwivedi might be members of the Karni Sena, follow up reports and statements from family members have clarified otherwise. Shivam Yadav’s father stated that his son had no connection with the Karni Sena or any similar outfit. Police sources have also not confirmed any organisational membership for either of the two men beyond their links to the Savarn Army event.
Swami Prasad Maurya’s Silence
Known for his vocal criticism of caste hierarchies, organisations like the Karni Sena, Swami Prasad Maurya has been noticeably silent following the attack. This contrasts with his usual combative stance and has led to speculation about whether political strategy or external pressure is influencing his response.
Legal and Political Reactions
The quick bail granted to the attackers has drawn questions from opposition parties, who allege political bias in the legal process. Critics have condemned the Savarn Army’s felicitation, saying it glorifies violence against political figures. Social media is sharply divided: supporters of Swami Prasad Maurya have called for stricter action, while some right-wing sympathisers have praised the attackers.
A Dangerous Precedent
Observers warn that rewarding individuals for physically attacking politicians like Swami Prasad Maurya risks creating a dangerous precedent in Indian politics. If unchecked, it could encourage similar acts of violence, replacing democratic debate with street level aggression.
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