A local BJP Kisan Morcha leader, Vikul Chaprana, has been arrested after a video surfaced showing him forcing a young man to publicly apologise by rubbing his nose on the road all while police officers stood by and failed to intervene.

What Happened

The incident occurred on October 19 at Tejgarhi Chowraha, located in the Medical police station limits of Meerut. The conflict reportedly started as a simple disagreement over vehicle parking near the office of Dr Somendra Tomar, the state minister for energy.

As the argument escalated, police were called to calm the situation. However, despite their presence, Chaprana and his group reportedly forced one of the young men involved in the dispute to apologise in a humiliating manner bowing, folding hands, and rubbing his nose on the road.

Caught on Camera

In a widely circulated video, Chaprana is seen shouting “Hath jod ke, hath jod ke” while the young man kneels on the ground and begs for forgiveness. His associates are also seen threatening the victims and allegedly damaging their vehicle. The footage also captures Chaprana clashing with police officers, even as they try to move the car.

Despite uniformed officers at the scene, no immediate action was taken, sparking criticism over police inaction and political misuse of power.

Police Response and Arrest

Following the video going viral, Meerut Police confirmed the arrest of Chaprana. According to SP City Ayush Vikram Singh, the incident was taken seriously once the footage reached authorities, and action was swiftly initiated.

An FIR was lodged based on a complaint by Aditya Rastogi, whose brother, Satyam Rastogi, was the one forced to apologise. Aditya alleged that Chaprana and his group assaulted his brother after a verbal spat and used threats and intimidation in the presence of law enforcement.

The charges include sections under the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita related to criminal intimidation, assault, and intentional insult.

Police Officers Punished for Inaction

Following an internal probe, the station in-charge and three other officers who were present during the incident have been suspended and sent to police lines for negligence. The Civil Lines area officer confirmed that the youth was humiliated in full view of the police, which led to the disciplinary action.

Political Fallout

The opposition was quick to react. Samajwadi Party leader Akhilesh Yadav condemned the BJP, stating on X (formerly Twitter), “The BJP people, intoxicated with the arrogance of power, never hesitate to insult anyone. BJP people don’t forget, every arrogance comes to an end one day or another.”

The Congress party also slammed the ruling party, writing:
“This is the true face of BJP where leaders see themselves as kings and treat ordinary people like insects. This thug should be arrested.”

They also pointed out that the act was carried out while invoking the name of Dr Somendra Tomar, hinting at political patronage.

BJP Distances Itself

Local BJP leadership acknowledged the issue, stating that the party does not support such conduct.
“The video has come to our attention. The party does not condone such behaviour. Information about the matter has been sent to the state and regional leadership,” said Shivkumar Rana, the BJP district president.

Meanwhile, Minister Tomar distanced himself from the event, telling reporters he had no involvement in the matter despite Chaprana being known for previously organising birthday celebrations in his honour.