Bhim Army Chief Chandrashekhar Azad ‘Ravan’ threatens officials saying, “I can get you booked under SC/ST Act…”

A video circulating on social media depicts Bhim Army chief Chandrashekhar Azad ‘Ravan’ purportedly issuing threats to administrative officials in Uttar Pradesh’s Auraiya district. In the video, Azad is heard warning the officials, including the District Magistrate, of potential legal action under the SC/ST (Prevention of Atrocities) Act.

During his visit to Auraiya’s Sahar police station area, Azad reportedly met with the widow and children of Brijesh Kumar, who was allegedly murdered on January 22, 2023. The deceased’s mother was also found dead under suspicious circumstances in 2022. Although murder allegations were leveled against Gajendra Singh and four others by Brijesh Kumar’s widow, Aarti Devi, only one arrest has been reported thus far.

Azad’s visit to the family on February 7, 2024, was marked by assurances of justice and demands for compensation, an arms license for the widow, and education for the deceased’s son. However, the tone of the encounter shifted as Azad confronted the district administration, demanding swift action against the accused and permanent security for the victim’s family.

In the video, he can be heard telling the officials that it is a matter of a second for him to book them, including the District Magistrate, under the SC/ST (Prevention of Atrocities) Act. “Would you like to be trapped in a case? This is not good,” he can be heard and seen telling the Sub Divisional Magistrate (SDM).

“Arrest and send him to jail and explain what the case is in your chargesheet and you tell the court what it is,” he was heard telling the CO.

In the viral video, Azad is heard warning the Sub Divisional Magistrate (SDM) and the Circle Officer (CO) of potential legal consequences under the SC/ST Act if their demands are not met within seven days. He emphasises his familiarity with legal procedures and calls for accountability, insisting on immediate action and compensation for the bereaved family.

He said, “I know the police very well.” He demanded action against the accused and compensation for the bereaved family.

“(Budget) Money is to be deposited within 7 day do you know that? I can get a case filed against you under SC/ST Act do you know that? Let me explain it to you if you don’t know. If you do not send the money in their (accused) account within 7 days then I can file a case against you CO, you (SDM) and DM. It will take a minute, it is a matter of seconds for me. Would you like to be trapped in a case? This is not good,” he told the SDM and CO.

The video has sparked widespread condemnation, with netizens criticising Azad for allegedly misusing the SC/ST Act to intimidate the administration. The incident underscores tensions surrounding issues of justice and accountability, particularly within marginalised communities, and raises questions about the appropriate use of legal frameworks in addressing social grievances.