Violence broke out at the residence of Samajwadi Party (SP) MP Ramji Lal Suman in Agra, Uttar Pradesh, on Wednesday after unidentified individuals pelted stones, broke window panes, and vandalized vehicles parked outside.
The incident followed Suman’s controversial remark about 16th-century Rajput king Rana Sanga, where he referred to him as a “traitor” for allegedly inviting Mughal emperor Babur to defeat Ibrahim Lodi. His statement has sparked widespread backlash, with demands for an apology and action against him.
Condemnations & Political Reactions
BJP MP Jagadambika Pal Condemns Suman’s Remarks
BJP MP Jagdambika Pal strongly criticized Suman’s statement, calling it disrespectful and hurtful to millions of people. He accused the SP leadership of failing to take action against him.
“The sentiments of crores of people were hurt by his statement. No public representative has the right to make such remarks about a highly respected figure. His party did not even issue a show-cause notice or take any action against him. These people speak against Sanatan Dharma every day and disrespect great men.”
Karni Sena Announces ₹5 Lakh Reward
According to SP MLA Ranjeet Suman, the attack was carried out by Karni Sena members. The Rajasthan unit of Karni Sena has also announced a ₹5 lakh reward for anyone who blackens Suman’s face and hits him with shoes.
“For the past two days, threats were being made on social media to attack the residence. Today, they came here, and many people were injured, including police officers.” – Ranjeet Suman
Dimple Yadav Blames Government for Attack
SP MP Dimple Yadav alleged that the vandalism was orchestrated by the government and criticized the law and order situation in Uttar Pradesh.
“If bombs are exploding on roads and women are not safe, it is the government’s responsibility. Such incidents send a wrong message to the youth. The government should take strict action. This is clearly a planned act.”
Ramji Lal Suman’s Clarification
Amid the outrage, Ramji Lal Suman issued a clarification, stating that he did not intend to hurt anyone’s religious sentiments.
“I said in Parliament that Babur was invited by Rana Sanga to defeat Ibrahim Lodi. My intention was not to hurt anyone’s religious sentiments. My statement was neither against any caste, class, nor religion. I respect all those who have sacrificed their lives for India.”
He further defended his remark, calling it a historical fact.
“Babur came to India at Rana Sanga’s invitation. This is a historical fact. Every time, people say that India’s Muslims have Babur in their DNA, but Indian Muslims follow Prophet Muhammad and the Sufi tradition. I did not mean to offend anyone.”
Akhilesh Yadav Backs Suman, Criticizes BJP
SP Chief Akhilesh Yadav defended Ramji Lal Suman, accusing BJP leaders of selectively revisiting history for political gain.
“Everyone is turning the pages of history. BJP leaders want to debate about Aurangzeb, so Ramji Lal Suman also referred to another historical event. We did not write history 100-200 years ago. I request the BJP not to keep revisiting history, as it will lead to scrutiny of other events as well.”
He also challenged the BJP over historical incidents related to Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj.
“When Shivaji Maharaj’s Tilak was performed, it wasn’t done with a hand but with a left toe. Will BJP apologize for this?”
The controversy has further deepened the political rift in Uttar Pradesh, with protests, violence, and heated debates continuing over Suman’s remarks.