BJP, NCP Sharad Pawar Supporters Engage In A Fist Fight In Maharashtra Assembly | Watch Viral Video

A video circulating widely on social media captures a violent altercation between supporters of BJP MLA Gopichand Padalkar and NCP (Sharad Pawar group) MLA Jitendra Awhad. The clash occurred in the Maharashtra Legislature complex, with security personnel struggling to intervene as punches were exchanged near the main entrance.

The conflict followed a heated exchange between Padalkar and Awhad at the legislature building's entrance. Awhad accused Padalkar of intentionally slamming his car door on him. Tensions escalated the next day, leading to a public confrontation between their supporters.

Political Reactions and Apologies

After the incident, Gopichand Padalkar expressed regret and apologised to the Speaker of the Assembly and Chairperson of the Legislative Council. "I am really saddened with what occurred here. This is an unfortunate incident," he stated, following a meeting with senior BJP leader Chandrashekhar Bawankule.

Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis condemned the brawl, labelling it "absolutely inappropriate." He emphasised that such incidents should not occur in Vidhan Bhavan and urged for a thorough investigation by the Maharashtra Legislative Assembly Speaker and Legislative Council Chairperson.

Concerns Over Security

Shiv Sena (UBT) chief Uddhav Thackeray criticised the security breach, holding the State Home Minister and Chief Minister accountable. "If goons have reached Vidhan Sabha, then the State Home Minister and Chief Minister should take responsibility for it," he remarked, highlighting concerns over safety within legislative premises.

NCP (SP) leader Jayant Patil met with security personnel to gather more information. Jitendra Awhad expressed serious concerns about safety in Vidhan Bhavan, questioning if MLAs are even safe there. He alleged that he was targeted for an attack.

Allegations of Premeditation

Awhad further claimed that those involved had been monitoring him for days. He suggested that MCOCA accused individuals were present inside the Assembly, posing threats to him and his workers. He described being abused and threatened with death during the incident.

NCP (SP) MLA Rohit Pawar criticised BJP over deteriorating law and order in Maharashtra, alleging that women and citizens are no longer safe. He claimed that attacks inside Vidhan Bhavan were planned, with party worker Nitin Deshmukh becoming an unintended victim instead of Awhad.

Legislative Response

The issue was raised in both Houses of the legislature. Shiv Sena (UBT) MLC Anil Parab brought it up in the legislative council, while Transport Minister Pratap Sarnaik promised to share details in the House. In response to concerns about overcrowding and pass distribution, Speaker Rahul Narwekar requested a detailed report for appropriate action.

Two individuals have been detained by Vidhan Bhavan security following this incident. BJP sources revealed that Padalkar was called back by Minister Chandrashekhar Bawankule after leaving the premises post-clash. Bawankule described the event as unfortunate and contrary to Maharashtra Vidhan Bhavan's dignity.