BJP Leaders Assault Retired Soldier in Lucknow

New Delhi, January 8, 2026: A wave of intense public indignation has been sparked across the country following the emergence of a disturbing viral video from Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh. In the footage, which began circulating widely on January 7, 2026, a retired soldier was seen being brutally assaulted by individuals identified as local leaders and workers of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP). The incident reportedly took place in the Ashiyana area during a heated dispute over a localized land matter, leading to a massive outcry regarding the safety and dignity of veterans in the state capital.

The Sequence of the Brutal Assault

The victim, identified as a retired Subedar-major, was allegedly targeted after he raised objections to certain construction activities being carried out near his property. It was observed in the video that the veteran was surrounded by a mob of men, some of whom were wearing saffron scarves, who then proceeded to punch, kick, and drag him across the street. Despite his visible attempts to de-escalate the situation by mentioning his service to the nation, the assault continued unabated until local residents intervened to pull the attackers away.

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Police Response and Legal Action

Following the viral spread of the evidence, a First Information Report (FIR) was registered by the Lucknow Police late on Wednesday night. Several sections of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), including those related to rioting, voluntarily causing hurt, and criminal intimidation, were invoked against the accused. It was confirmed by the Deputy Commissioner of Police that two primary suspects, identified as local office-bearers of the ruling party, have been taken into custody for questioning. The police have vowed that the investigation will be conducted impartially, regardless of the political affiliations of those involved.

Political Backlash and Demands for Accountability

The incident has quickly transformed into a major political flashpoint, with opposition leaders from the Samajwadi Party and Congress condemning the “hooliganism” displayed in the capital. It was argued by opposition spokespersons that if a man who spent his life guarding the nation’s borders is not safe in his own neighborhood, the “law and order” claims of the government stand hollow. Demands for the immediate expulsion of the involved leaders from the party were raised, while social media users have flooded platforms with the hashtag #JusticeForSoldier to demand a fast-track trial.

A Community Stands in Solidarity

As of January 8, 2026, various veteran associations have announced a peaceful protest in Lucknow to express solidarity with the retired soldier. It has been emphasized by the veteran community that the physical injuries sustained are secondary to the “insult to the uniform” that occurred during the public thrashing. While the victim is currently receiving medical treatment at a local hospital, the video remains a trending topic, serving as a grim reminder of the need for stricter accountability for political workers who take the law into their own hands.