Special correspondent: A minor motorcycle accident in Multai town of Betul district in Madhya Pradesh has spiralled into a communal flashpoint, with Hindu right-wing organisations threatening vigilante action against Muslims under the slogan of ‘bulldozer justice’. The incident began when two motorcycles collided near a busy market area on Thursday evening. What should have been a routine traffic dispute quickly escalated into violence, as groups from both communities reportedly clashed and pelted stones at each other.
The local administration confirmed that the situation worsened when rumours spread on social media, leading to further gatherings and slogans. Police have since detained five youths and suspended two sub-inspectors for alleged negligence in controlling the initial scuffle. Leaders of Hindu organisations gathered soon after the violence, demanding immediate demolition of the homes of those they claimed were responsible. Comparing the situation to Uttar Pradesh’s aggressive bulldozer campaigns under Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, they threatened similar action if the administration failed to respond.
One of the leaders, identified locally as Rakesh Tiwari, declared, “If the administration does not act like Yogi ji’s government, we will bring our own bulldozers. The time for patience is over.” The Hindu groups accused members of the Muslim community of chanting objectionable slogans such as “Sar tan se juda”, a phrase often associated with extremist threats. They also alleged harassment of Hindu women and interference in Hindu festivals.
However, no evidence or verified video has yet been presented to support these claims. Police sources confirmed that they are investigating the matter and appealed for calm from both sides. Superintendent of Police, Anil Singh, told reporters, “We are verifying all claims. Those involved in violence, regardless of religion, will face legal action. Spreading communal hatred will not be tolerated.”
While Hindu groups have been vocal in their demands, the Muslim residents of Multai have remained largely silent, reportedly fearing further backlash. Local shopkeeper Abdul Rahman said quietly, “We are being blamed without being heard. Nobody came to ask what really happened.” Community elders have urged restraint and requested the administration to conduct a fair inquiry. A teacher from the Muslim neighbourhood, preferring anonymity, said, “We are living in fear. Even a small argument is now being painted as jihad.”
The demand for bulldozer action reflects a disturbing trend where punitive demolitions are used as a symbol of dominance against minorities. Civil rights groups have repeatedly criticised such actions in Uttar Pradesh and elsewhere, calling them “extrajudicial” and “discriminatory.” In Madhya Pradesh, the rhetoric appears to be following the same path. Local political observers note that such threats aim to intimidate Muslim communities and consolidate majoritarian sentiment.
Activist Nasir Khan commented, “Bulldozers have become weapons of hate, not justice. These actions are not about law but about humiliation.” Authorities have deployed additional police forces in and around Multai to prevent further escalation. District Collector Priya Verma said, “The situation is under control. We are monitoring social media and appealing to citizens not to fall prey to rumours.”
