Violent Altercation Mars BJP Event in Rohtak as Workers Clash on Stage
A public programme organised by the Bharatiya Janata Party in Rohtak descended into chaos on Sunday when a scuffle erupted among party workers, escalating to physical violence including punches and kicks exchanged in full public view. The incident occurred during the foundation stone-laying ceremony for the third campus of the Gaud Brahman Vidya Pracharini Sabha, where Haryana Minister Arvind Sharma was serving as the chief guest.
Seating Dispute Sparks Physical Confrontation
According to eyewitness accounts and preliminary reports, the altercation originated from a disagreement over seating arrangements on the stage. A verbal argument initially broke out between former village sarpanch and councillor Praveen Kaushik and Monu Atri, a resident of Bhalaut village. The situation intensified when Kaushik reportedly asked Atri to move down from the stage, which Atri allegedly interpreted as an insult to his personal dignity and social standing.
Within moments, what began as a heated exchange of words transformed into a full-blown physical clash. Supporters from both sides quickly joined the fray, turning the stage into an arena of pushing, shoving, and outright violence. Attendees at the venue were reportedly shocked as the situation spiralled completely out of control before most could comprehend what was unfolding before their eyes.
Minister and Police Forced to Intervene
The most startling aspect of the incident was that the entire episode occurred directly on the stage, in the immediate presence of Minister Arvind Sharma. As punches and kicks continued to be exchanged, creating a dangerous and volatile atmosphere, the police personnel stationed at the venue were compelled to step in to prevent further escalation and potential injuries.
Following the police intervention, Minister Sharma personally took charge of the situation. He engaged with both conflicting parties, facilitating dialogue and helping broker a temporary compromise. The minister appealed to all BJP workers present to maintain brotherhood, discipline, and uphold the dignity of both the party and the programme itself.
Conflicting Accounts Emerge After Incident
In the aftermath of the public altercation, conflicting narratives have emerged regarding what actually transpired. Monu Atri, one of the individuals reportedly involved in the initial dispute, has categorically denied that any physical fight took place. According to his version of events, there was no physical altercation whatsoever, and the programme concluded peacefully without incident.
Atri suggested that a video circulating on social media platforms has been misinterpreted by viewers. He claimed the footage merely shows people being asked to sit down due to overcrowding at the venue, not any violent confrontation. Praveen Kaushik, the other party reportedly involved in the dispute, has similarly denied that any scuffle occurred between them.
Despite these denials, multiple eyewitnesses and initial police reports confirm that a physical altercation did indeed take place, requiring intervention from both law enforcement and the minister present. The incident has raised questions about internal discipline within political party workers during public events and the challenges of managing large gatherings where protocol and seating arrangements can become flashpoints for conflict.
