Uttar Pradesh Congress leader Mamta Chaudhary has accused former state party chief Ajay Rai of being anti-Dalit, alleging that he abused and threatened her during a turbulent clash at the party headquarters in Lucknow. A newly surfaced video of the confrontation has further fueled the controversy.
Speaking to media outlets, Chaudhary alleged that Rai told her to stay within her limits while his associates threatened her, brandished shoes and slippers, and physically assaulted women workers. She stated that she is a Dalit and accused Rai of holding anti-Dalit sentiments, claiming he used crude language and directed others to attack.
According to Chaudhary, Rai's associates acted like thugs by aggressively confronting workers, raising footwear, and using physical force. She also alleged that Rai has a history of aggressive behavior, pointing to a past incident involving senior leader Imran Masood, and claimed that Dalit members have long faced hostility within the organization.
The altercation occurred on Sunday during an event at the state headquarters to mark the assumption of charge by newly appointed state president Aradhana Mishra and Masood. A fresh video of the incident shows a heated, profanity-laden dispute as tempers flared and the situation spiraled into complete chaos.
In response to the incident, Rai lodged a complaint with senior Congress leaders, including Rajya Sabha member Pramod Tiwari, Mishra, and Masood. He has formally demanded Chaudhary's expulsion, arguing that her actions harmed the party's image and internal environment. The party leadership has not yet announced any formal disciplinary action regarding the demand.