Rewa BJP MLA Sparks Controversy for Garlanding Martyr’s Statue with Shoes On, Congress called 'Shamefull'

BJP MLA in Controversy After Honoring Martyr with Shoes On: Rewa's BJP MLA, Narendra Prajapati, has found himself in a new controversy. The lawmaker is being criticized for allegedly paying his respects to the statue of martyr Major Ashish Dubey by garlanding it and offering flowers while still wearing his shoes. The incident occurred on Independence Day, August 15.

The incident took place at Shaheed Major Ashish Dubey Government Higher Secondary School (Sandipani School) in Mangawan, where the MLA was the chief guest for a flag-hoisting ceremony. Students, parents, and local residents were all present at the event. Upon arrival, the MLA reportedly went directly to the martyr's statue.

Garlanding with Shoes on Sparks Outrage

Before anyone could object, the MLA proceeded to garland the statue and offer flowers while wearing his shoes. Onlookers watched in disbelief, and the incident came to light after a video of the event went viral. The video was originally live-streamed from the MLA's official Facebook account.

The controversy gained momentum when the Congress party's social media team noticed the live video. After a closer look, the Congress IT cell identified the alleged disrespect and began criticizing the MLA.

Congress Condemns the Act, Calls for Apology

Vinod Sharma, the state spokesperson for the Congress, called the incident "shameful" and an "insult to the martyr." He stated that MLA Prajapati has become so arrogant in his first term that he now considers common people insignificant and openly disrespects martyrs.

Sharma added that it would have been better if the MLA hadn't offered the garland at all, as it would have preserved the martyr's dignity. The Congress party strongly condemned the insult and said the MLA did not even deserve to apologize, adding that the public would give him an answer in the next election.

Who Was Major Ashish Kumar Dubey?

Major Ashish Kumar Dubey was a brave soldier who sacrificed his life for the country. On May 6, 2003, he and his team were on a mission in the Thanamandi area of Rajouri district in J&K. Upon reaching the location, he ordered his troops to surround the suspected area. His team soon came face-to-face with terrorists, who opened fire after being challenged. A fierce gunfight ensued.

Major Dubey led from the front, tactically deploying his soldiers to block the terrorists' escape routes. He confronted the terrorists with immense bravery but was fatally shot during the encounter. He succumbed to his injuries while receiving treatment. He was just 29 years old.