Barabanki Lathi Charge: CM Yogi Orders Immediate Action, Transfers Officials and Initiates Probe

The lathi charge at Shri Ram Swaroop Memorial University in Barabanki, Uttar Pradesh, has prompted a strong reaction from Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath. The incident, which occurred on Monday, led to injuries among students and ABVP members, has ignited political tensions. State Minister Satish Chandra Sharma visited the injured at the district hospital. CM Yogi has ordered immediate action, removing CO Nagar Harshit Chauhan from his position and transferring the Kotwali in-charge Ramkishan Rana and the entire police force from Gadiya police post. Inspector General of Police, Ayodhya Range, Praveen Kumar, has been tasked with investigating the lathi charge. The Ayodhya Divisional Commissioner and the Inspector General of Police visited Ram Swaroop University to investigate the incidents, focusing on both degree-related matters and the lathi charge, gathering evidence. CM Yogi expressed his displeasure regarding the incident during a cabinet meeting. He has requested detailed reports from the Ayodhya Commissioner and the IG Ayodhya. IG Praveen Kumar confirmed the ongoing investigation and stated that strict action will be taken against anyone found guilty. The lathi charge has fueled outrage among ABVP activists and students. Protests and attempts to gherao the Vidhan Sabha in Lucknow occurred on Tuesday, leading to police intervention and detentions. The opposition, including Akhilesh Yadav, has criticized the government’s handling of the situation, with Yadav sharing a video on social media. He called the lathi charge a manifestation of governmental failure.