In Uttarakhand, striking images circulating on social media depict an extraordinary scene where it's difficult to discern if these are politicians or gangsters, leaving onlookers in disbelief. The images provoke sorrow and a sense of shame, questioning whether this is the governance chosen by the people, upheld by law and order.
These visuals suggest a state of lawlessness, where a former MLA openly, during broad daylight, arrives armed to the current MLA's office, engaging in threatening verbal abuse and reckless shooting.
The tragic irony is that this event occurred on the same day the nation celebrated its 76th Republic Day—marking the formal enforcement of the Constitution, the advent of legal governance. Today, we delve into the embarrassing saga of a political gang war between MLA Umesh Kumar and former MLA Kunwar Pranav Singh Champion in Haridwar, Uttarakhand.
The contention began as former MLA Kunwar Pranav Singh Champion arrived at MLA Umesh Kumar's office. He called for weapons, loaded a magazine into his rifle, and commenced relentless firing with his revolver. Countless bullets were discharged as his supporters looked on.
Witnessing this brazen act, some associates from Umesh Kumar's office attempted to pacify Champion and his supporters, only to be brutally beaten. This violent spree, marked by indiscriminate gunfire, raged on for several minutes, fueled by fiery anger.
Amidst this chaotic aggression, Champion and his followers ignored the potential catastrophic consequences their actions could inflict on innocent lives within the vicinity, risking human lives with reckless abandon.
Oblivious to the national flag waving above, the mob continued, disrespecting it with their mindless fury. Yet, in pursuit of wealth and false prestige, Champion provided a stark testament of arrogance at Umesh Kumar's office.
Source: aajtak
Following Champion's retreat, Umesh Kumar and his supporters, guns in hand, sought retaliation, angry and resentful, declaring an end to this constant turmoil. Fortunately, police intervention prevented further escalation.
Upon hearing of Champion's assault, police rushed to Umesh's office, courageously persuading him to relinquish his arms, averting a retaliatory attack that could have resulted in further tragedy.
One might wonder who captured this scandalous video. The recordings were made by the supporters of both politicians and subsequently by journalists. Champion did not secretly plan the attack; instead, he openly orchestrated it, instructing his men to arm themselves and have cameras at the ready.
This documented gunfire assault was then boldly posted on Facebook, brazenly flouting the law without remorse. Although the video was later removed, the damage was done.
The rival supporters mirrored this tactic, capturing their retaliation attempt to demonstrate the defiance of MLA Kumar, fearlessly challenging even Kunwar.
Source: aajtak
Presently, police have apprehended both Kunwar Pranav Singh Champion, MLA Umesh Kumar, and some supporters involved in this open display of violence. Despite arrests, their defiant attitudes remain unyielding.
To understand this conflict's roots, one must explore their political rivalry dating back to 2022, sparked during the Khanpur Assembly elections where Champion and Umesh Kumar faced off. As a four-term former MLA, Champion was bypassed by the BJP, who favored his wife, Devyani. Umesh Kumar's victory over Devyani ignited a deeper feud when Champion landed in third place.
This rivalry festered, culminating in social media clashes marked by disparaging remarks and online confrontations, eventually spilling into physical violence.
The altercation saw its climactic act on January 26 with Champion's armed assault on Umesh Kumar's office. While both have faced police custody, Umesh Kumar was temporarily released on bail, whereas Champion was remanded in judicial custody, pending legal resolution. All weapons, including those used in the crime, were confiscated, and all relevant licenses were recommended for cancellation by local authorities.
