Karni Sena Members Rally in Agra Demanding Apology from MP Ramji Lal Suman Over Rana Sanga Remarks

Members of the Karni Sena and 40 other Kshatriya groups gathered in Garhi, wearing yellow and saffron scarves and wielding swords. They demanded an apology from Samajwadi Party MP Ramji Lal Suman for his comments about Rajput king Rana Sanga. The local administration was on high alert due to a warning from the Karni Sena, who threatened to march to Suman's residence if he did not apologise by 5 pm.

Security around Suman's house was significantly increased in anticipation of the Karni Sena's gathering. The Rajya Sabha MP's residence had been attacked on March 26 by Karni Sena members after he referred to Rana Sanga as a traitor. The gathering began in the morning, with the crowd growing larger by the afternoon. Leaders of Kshatriya groups took to the stage, praising the 16th-century king.

Security Measures and Police Response

Deputy Commissioner of Police Sonam Kumar stated that a three-tier security plan was implemented. Police were deployed at 24 identified points, with barriers set up at various locations. To strengthen local forces, police personnel were called in from neighbouring districts like Meerut, Jhansi, and Mainpuri. Authorities also monitored social media activity related to the conference closely.

Videos from the event showed attendees brandishing swords, spears, and wooden sticks. When asked about this display of weapons, DCP Kumar said that the police would investigate the matter. The Karni Sena march was eventually called off following intervention by senior administrative officials and local BJP leaders.

Political Reactions and Historical Context

The controversy began when Suman stated in Parliament on March 21 that Rana Sanga invited Mughal emperor Babur to India to defeat Ibrahim Lodi, the last sultan of the Delhi Sultanate. This comment questioned the Rajput legacy and drew backlash from Rajput bodies like the Akhil Bharatiya Kshatriya Mahasabha and the Karni Sena.

Sandeep Singh, Karni Sena state president, mentioned that if Suman did not apologise, Kshatriya organisations would plan future actions. He made this statement while addressing the media after the Rakt Swabhiman Sammelan pride of blood conference concluded.

Rana Sanga's Legacy Celebrated

April 12 marks Rana Sanga's birth anniversary, and Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath greeted people on X for the occasion. "On the birth anniversary of the mighty Rana Sanga Ji, who was dedicated to the protection of religion, many salutes to him!" Adityanath posted in Hindi. "His story of glory, a symbol of patriotism and sacrifice, is a golden chapter in history," he added.

Suman has approached the Allahabad High Court seeking security following the attack on his house. Local SP leaders also gathered near Suman's residence in response to threats from Karni Sena members who attended Agra's Rakt Swabhiman Sammelan.