Bhopal: In a major escalation of the controversy surrounding Pritam Lodhi, the Bharatiya Janata Party’s Madhya Pradesh unit has issued a show-cause notice to the Pichhore legislator over his controversial remarks directed at a police officer.
State BJP President Hemant Khandelwal has asked Lodhi to submit his reply within three days, describing his conduct as “highly objectionable” and “against party discipline.”
“The party is fully cognizant of the matter. A notice has been issued, and appropriate action will be taken,” Khandelwal told the media.
What Triggered The Controversy
The controversy erupted after Lodhi made explosive remarks targeting Ayush Jakhar, the Sub-Divisional Officer of Police (SDOP) in Karera.
In a video that circulated widely on social media, Lodhi questioned the officer’s authority, saying:
“Karera is not your daddy’s fiefdom. My son will come there, he will contest elections there — if your ‘daddy’ has the guts, let him stop my son.”
He further escalated tensions by threatening to mobilise 10,000 people to march to the officer’s residence and “fill it with cow dung,” remarks that drew sharp condemnation from political leaders and civil society groups.
SUV Crash Involving MLA’s Son Added Fuel To The Crisis
The situation intensified after Lodhi’s son, Dinesh Lodhi, was accused of causing a serious road accident on April 16.
According to police reports, Dinesh Lodhi allegedly rammed his Thar SUV into five people:
- First hitting two women walking along the road
- Then crashing into a motorcycle carrying three men
An FIR has been registered, and the vehicle involved in the incident has been seized by authorities.
Instead of calming tensions, the MLA’s confrontation with the police further escalated the situation, prompting intervention from the BJP’s national leadership.
BJP High Command Steps In
Following mounting criticism, the BJP’s central leadership sought a detailed report from the Madhya Pradesh unit. Soon after, the state leadership issued the show-cause notice to Lodhi.
Party leaders have indicated that disciplinary action may follow depending on his response.
IPS Association Demands Strict Action
The backlash has extended beyond political circles.
The Indian Police Service Association has written to the Chief Minister demanding strict legal action, calling Lodhi’s statements:
- An insult to administrative machinery
- A threat to law and order
The association urged authorities to ensure accountability for public representatives making such remarks.
Opposition And Public Protests Intensify Pressure
Opposition leaders have also launched sharp attacks on the ruling party.
Leader of Opposition Umang Singhar criticised the BJP, saying:
“The BJP once accused Congress of protecting criminals. Today, its own ministers and MLAs are openly flouting the law. The party is turning into a shelter for goons.”
Meanwhile, protests have begun on the ground:
- Members of the Bhim Army staged demonstrations in Shivpuri
- The Sahariya Kranti Sangathan warned of further agitation
- Protesters described Lodhi’s remarks as offensive and unacceptable
MLA Changes Stance Amid Mounting Criticism
Facing growing backlash from political leaders, police associations, and the public, Lodhi has now altered his stance.
He claimed that:
- His remarks were misrepresented by the media
- The controversy was exaggerated beyond context
However, the party leadership has maintained that disciplinary proceedings will continue based on his written explanation.