BJP MLA Confronts Collector Over Fertilizer Crisis in Madhya Pradesh

In a tense encounter on August 27, 2025, in Bhind, Madhya Pradesh, a local MLA from the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), Narendra Singh Kushwaha, confronted District Collector Sanjeev Shrivastava over a significant fertilizer shortage affecting farmers in the region. The incident escalated to a heated exchange, with reports suggesting that the MLA attempted to strike the official during their confrontation.

Incident Details

The conflict unfolded at the Collector’s official residence, where Kushwaha, accompanied by local farmers, sought to voice their grievances regarding the insufficient supply of fertilizers. Tensions rapidly escalated as arguments broke out. Video footage of the incident, which has circulated widely on social media, depicts Kushwaha attempting to enter the premises while security personnel intervened.

In the video, Collector Shrivastava can be seen pointing at the MLA as Kushwaha responds aggressively, reportedly stating, “you don’t know me,” while appearing to charge at the Collector. The situation intensified further when Kushwaha accused Shrivastava of being the “biggest thief” and allowing extortion through private individuals, particularly in relation to illegal sand mining.

After the Collector retreated into his residence, the protesting farmers continued to chant slogans outside the gate, expressing their dissatisfaction. Kushwaha later addressed reporters, emphasizing the hardships faced by local populations due to the fertilizer crisis. “People are not getting fertilizers. Women are getting troubled. Is he [the Collector] Hitler?” he questioned.

Political Reactions

The incident drew immediate political reactions, particularly from the opposition. Umang Singhar, Leader of the Opposition and Congress MLA, condemned the BJP MLA’s actions, labeling the confrontation as an unfortunate display of aggression. He criticized the state government for failing to address the ongoing fertilizer shortages, stating, “It is very unfortunate that the BJP MLA entered the Bhind Collector’s bungalow and tried to threaten him.”

Singhar further highlighted the broader implications of the fertilizer crisis, indicating that the issue affects farmers across the entire state. He pointed to the lack of responsiveness from Chief Minister Mohan Yadav and his administration, suggesting that their negligence has led to a situation where even an MLA needed to resort to confrontation to seek assistance for his constituents.

The episode underscores the growing frustrations among farmers in Madhya Pradesh, as they continue to face challenges in accessing essential agricultural supplies. As the government navigates this crisis, the political ramifications of such confrontations may have significant consequences for the BJP’s standing in the region.