Dalit Sarpanch Abducted and Assaulted in MP's Morena: Activists Demand Immediate Action Under SC/ST Act

Morena- A Dalit sarpanch was allegedly abducted from his home in Kelaras village, Morena district, and subjected to a brutal beating by a group of 20-25 individuals described as "casteist elements." The attack, which occurred earlier on Saturday, has been condemned as a direct assault on India's constitutional framework, social justice, and democratic representation.

The incident came to light through a viral video and post shared by prominent Dalit activist and Azaad Samaj Party founder Sunil Astay, a former Bhim Army state in-charge in Madhya Pradesh. In the post, Astay detailed the abduction and assault, emphasizing its gravity: "The abduction of the Dalit sarpanch from his home in Kelaras, Morena district, Madhya Pradesh, and the beating by casteist elements is extremely serious, condemnable, and a direct attack on the democratic system. This incident is not just against one individual but against the Constitution, social justice, and Dalit representation."

The accompanying video, aired on local channel Vistar News, shows on-the-ground reporting from the scene. It depicts the sarpanch's family and villagers gathered outside the local police station, demanding swift intervention. According to the report, the assailants stormed the sarpanch's residence in the Kelaras police station area, forcibly kidnapped him, and transported him to a nearby village where they allegedly thrashed him severely. The attackers then returned him to his home, locked him inside, and fled before police arrived. The sarpanch sustained serious injuries and is receiving treatment.

The family has alleged possible motives linked to a financial dispute, though details remain unconfirmed. The clip urges police to take "strict and immediate action," underscoring a pattern of unchecked caste-based violence in the region.

Astay tagged key officials, including Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Dr. Mohan Yadav, Morena Superintendent of Police, and the state government holding them accountable for administrative inaction. He warned: "When an elected Dalit public representative is not safe, the security of ordinary Dalit citizens automatically comes under question. The administration's inaction and silence are emboldening criminals and reveal a complete failure in preventing caste violence."