A dramatic confrontation unfolded in Mahoba, Uttar Pradesh, on Friday, January 30, 2026, when a heated argument erupted between BJP Water Resources Minister Swatantra Dev Singh and BJP MLA Brajbhushan Rajput. The incident, captured on video and widely circulated on social media, exposed simmering tensions within the ruling party regarding the implementation of key government schemes and the handling of local grievances.
The clash occurred as Minister Swatantra Dev Singh was leaving a "Yuva Udgosh" program at Ramshree Mahavidyalaya. MLA Brajbhushan Rajput, representing the Charkhari constituency, along with a large group of supporters, stopped the minister's convoy on Collectorate Road. The MLA and his supporters were protesting against the poor condition of roads, which they alleged were damaged due to works under the Jal Jeevan Mission, and the persistent water scarcity in several villages. They claimed that despite three years of the mission, many villages still lacked adequate water supply.
The protest quickly escalated into a heated exchange between the MLA, his supporters, and the minister's security personnel. Reports indicate that a brief scuffle also broke out during the confrontation. Videos circulating online show the minister stepping out of his vehicle to engage in a sharp exchange with the MLA amidst the commotion.
MLA Brajbhushan Rajput voiced his concerns over the lack of progress in ensuring water supply to villages under the Jal Jeevan Mission, a flagship initiative of Prime Minister Narendra Modi. He alleged severe administrative negligence, with the Namami Gange Yojana and related water projects stalled, resulting in dug-up roads and leaking pipelines that cause daily inconvenience to residents.
Following the roadside confrontation, both leaders, along with their supporters, proceeded to the District Magistrate's office to discuss the issues. Authorities barricaded the collectorate to prevent public entry and further escalation of the situation. The MLA stated that he had apprised the minister of the serious issues and demanded immediate action. He also conveyed that the minister had asked for 20 days to resolve the issues.
Minister Swatantra Dev Singh assured that strict action would be taken and officials would be suspended if negligence was found. He also offered to personally inspect the affected villages along with the MLA and district officials.
The incident has triggered a political stir in Lucknow's circles, particularly as the party prepares for upcoming local assessments. The public display of disagreement between the two BJP leaders has highlighted the growing frustration among local representatives regarding the execution of central and state schemes. Some reports claimed the minister was held hostage, though officials denied it.
