Datia Bypoll: Violent Protests Erupt After BJP Denies Ticket to Narottam Mishra

Public Lokpal
July 11, 2026

Datia: A massive rebellion has rocked the BJP unit in Datia, Madhya Pradesh, after the party bypassed six-time MLA and former Home Minister Narottam Mishra for the July 30 Assembly bypoll.

The party instead fielded organizational loyalist Ashutosh Tiwari. In an aggressive backlash, thousands of Mishra's supporters staged a "chakka jaam," completely blocking the Gwalior-Jhansi Highway (NH-44).

The blockade created a massive 15-kilometer traffic gridlock that affected neighboring districts. The protest turned violent when demonstrators forced local markets to shut down and pelted stones at law enforcement.Police used tear gas shells to disperse the rioting crowds.

The clashes left more than six police personnel, including the Datia Superintendent of Police and Additional SP, seriously injured.

In solidarity with Mishra, the entire district BJP leadership has resigned, issuing a 24-hour ultimatum to the high command to reverse the decision.