While the nation celebrated Republic Day on Sunday, an unsettling episode of violence unfolded in Roorkee, Uttarakhand. Former BJP MLA from Khanpur, Pranav Singh Champion, allegedly stormed the office of his political rival and current Independent MLA, Umesh Kumar, with his supporters and fired multiple gunshots. The shocking incident left the town reeling and has since become a topic of national outrage.
Adding to the drama, Umesh Kumar was later seen in a viral video chasing Pranav Champion with a pistol in hand. Even more surprising was the Uttarakhand Police’s handling of the situation, with their apparent leniency towards Champion during his arrest sparking criticism. The incident has raised serious questions about law and order in the state.
From Social Media Feud to Gangwar on the Streets
What started as a heated exchange of words on social media between the two leaders escalated into a full-blown street brawl. For weeks, both Pranav Champion and Umesh Kumar, along with their supporters, had been trading barbs online. The tension boiled over on Saturday night when Umesh Kumar reportedly went to Champion’s residence in Landhaura with his supporters over a social media post. However, finding Champion absent, Umesh and his supporters returned.
The next day, in retaliation, Pranav Champion and his group arrived at Umesh Kumar’s office and allegedly opened fire. The gunshots created panic across Roorkee, and shortly after, Umesh Kumar, enraged by the attack, grabbed a pistol and pursued Champion. His actions were captured on video and quickly went viral, amplifying the public outrage.
Police’s Controversial Response
The conduct of the Uttarakhand Police during and after Champion’s arrest has come under scrutiny. Videos of the arrest show Champion standing outside the police station, surrounded by officers who appeared to be in a deferential posture. Champion can be seen casually conversing with the police, even shaking hands with them, leading many to accuse the authorities of favoring the former MLA.
Haridwar’s Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP), Pramendra Doval, confirmed that Champion was arrested under relevant sections of the Indian Penal Code. However, a parallel case has also been filed against Umesh Kumar based on Champion’s complaint. Doval further stated that both leaders’ gun licenses have been recommended for suspension, and an investigation is underway.
Pranav Champion’s Troubled Past
This is not the first time Pranav Singh Champion has courted controversy. The former MLA has a long history of violent behavior and misconduct:
2006: Fired at a roadways bus driver for not giving way in Bahadrabad.
2010: Opened fire during a program in Manglaur.
2013: Fired a gun after a dinner party at then-minister Harak Singh Rawat’s home, injuring one person.
2017: Seen dancing with a pistol in hand at Uttarakhand Bhawan in Delhi, leading to his suspension from the BJP for six years.
2019: Accused of slapping a journalist at Uttarakhand Bhawan, though he denied the allegations.
Umesh Kumar’s Political Journey
Umesh Kumar emerged victorious as an Independent candidate from Khanpur in the 2022 Assembly elections, defeating BJP candidate Devyani Singh. A former journalist, Kumar gained fame for his role in exposing the Harish Rawat sting operation during the Congress government. This propelled him into the political limelight and paved the way for his entry into politics.
Following the attack on his office, Kumar lashed out at Champion, stating, “This is nothing but hooliganism. A man, frustrated by his defeat, resorts to such madness. If the administration doesn’t take appropriate action, I’ll burn down his mansion.”
Public Outrage and Political Fallout
The incident has sparked widespread outrage, with many citizens questioning the deteriorating state of law and order in Uttarakhand. Social media is flooded with videos of the incident, with netizens demanding strict action against both leaders to set an example. The lenient approach of the police has also raised concerns about political interference in law enforcement.
As the investigation continues, this dramatic clash between two political rivals has not only tarnished the sanctity of Republic Day but also exposed deep-seated rivalries and the misuse of power by elected representatives. With both leaders under scrutiny, the coming days will reveal whether justice is served or if this remains another blot on Uttarakhand’s political landscape.
