Swami Prasad Maurya Attacked in Rae Bareli: Karni Sena Sparks Fresh Political Storm
In a shocking incident that has stirred the political landscape of Uttar Pradesh, former cabinet minister and Apni Janata Party (AJP) president Swami Prasad Maurya was physically assaulted during a public event in Rae Bareli on August 6, 2025. The attacker, reportedly a Karni Sena supporter, disguised himself as a well-wisher before slapping Maurya on stage, triggering chaos and nationwide headlines.
The assault not only raised serious questions about the state’s law and order situation but also exposed the growing tensions between caste-based political ideologies and fringe right-wing groups.
Background: Who is Swami Prasad Maurya?
Swami Prasad Maurya is a seasoned politician from Uttar Pradesh, known for his fiery speeches, pro-Dalit stance, and anti-Brahminical narratives. A former minister in the Yogi Adityanath government, Maurya switched political camps multiple times, eventually forming his own party—Apni Janata Party (AJP)—after breaking ties with the Samajwadi Party.
Maurya has frequently stirred controversy with his sharp criticisms of Hindu religious practices, particularly targeting what he terms as the “oppressive structures” of Sanatan Dharma. While this has gained him a loyal base among backward and marginalized communities, it has also made him a prime target of right-wing organizations like the Karni Sena, which claim to defend Hindu traditions and caste pride.
What Happened in Rae Bareli?
The incident occurred at Gol Chauraha, Rae Bareli, where Maurya was being publicly felicitated. As he waved to the crowd, a young man suddenly rushed onto the stage and slapped him forcefully from behind. The attacker, now identified as Rohit Dwivedi, was instantly overpowered and beaten by Maurya’s supporters before being taken into custody by local police.
The shocking moment was caught on camera, and videos of the slap went viral across social media within hours.
Who Was Behind the Attack?
Initial police investigation revealed that Rohit Dwivedi and another man named Shivam Yadav were involved in the premeditated act. During questioning, Dwivedi allegedly claimed that the attack was motivated by Swami Prasad Maurya’s remarks against Brahmin society and Sanatan Dharma.
Members of the Karni Sena, a fringe caste-based organization, later claimed responsibility, calling it a “retaliation for disrespecting Hindu traditions.” The group even issued a provocative statement defending the attacker and warning of further consequences if Maurya did not stop his “anti-Hindu rhetoric.”
Political Reactions and Fallout
Swami Prasad Maurya, visibly shaken but defiant, accused the Yogi Adityanath government of shielding violent right-wing elements like the Karni Sena.
“This is not just an attack on me but on democracy. Karni Sena goons roam free because they have the protection of those in power,” he said at a press conference.
Several opposition leaders, including Akhilesh Yadav, Mayawati, and Congress leaders from UP, condemned the incident, demanding swift action and questioning the deteriorating security in the state.
Meanwhile, BJP leaders maintained that the law will take its course but distanced themselves from the Karni Sena’s justification.
The Bigger Picture: Caste, Politics, and Freedom of Speech
This attack on Swami Prasad Maurya isn’t an isolated event—it’s a reflection of the rising polarization in Uttar Pradesh’s political and social environment. Maurya’s ideology, which champions Bahujan empowerment and critiques upper-caste orthodoxy, stands in stark contrast to the Hindutva narrative dominating North Indian politics.
As the 2027 Uttar Pradesh Assembly Elections inch closer, such incidents may further deepen communal and caste-based divisions, shaping the battle lines between progressive and reactionary forces.
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📅 What’s Next?
As Maurya’s supporters gear up for protests and the political debate heats up, all eyes are on how the Uttar Pradesh government handles the situation. Will the attackers face exemplary punishment, or will this become yet another chapter in the long saga of caste vs. power?
For now, one thing is certain—Swami Prasad Maurya has once again become the epicenter of a storm that goes far beyond a slap.
