Etawah Incident: Beating of Yadav Storyteller Sparks Political and Religious Debate

The recent assault of a storyteller from the Yadav community in Etawah has escalated into a major political and religious controversy. The incident, which initially appeared to be a case of caste-based violence, is now being debated at the highest levels, with allegations of a wider conspiracy to defame Sanatan Dharma and the Uttar Pradesh government.

Background and Emerging Details

The controversy began when a storyteller from the Yadav community was reportedly beaten during a religious event. Early reports suggested that the attack occurred because he was not a Brahmin, sparking outrage over caste discrimination. However, new information has emerged alleging that the storyteller possessed fake Aadhaar identity cards, leading to a formal police case against him.

Religious Leaders Respond

Acharya Pramod Krishnam, head of Kalki Peeth, spoke out strongly on the issue, stating, “There is a deliberate attempt to malign Sanatan Dharma and tarnish the image of Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath. According to our scriptures, anyone who has attained the knowledge of Brahman is a Brahmin, regardless of their birth.”

He further explained, “Sanatan Dharma does not recognize casteism. The system is based on one’s work, not birth. Those who are trying to divide Sanatan Dharma along caste lines are part of a larger conspiracy, and this needs to be exposed.”

Invitation and Support

Acharya Pramod Krishnam extended an invitation to the storyteller, Mukut Mani, saying, “Although he was born in a Yadav family, who is a bigger devotee or Sanatani than a Yadav? I invite him to narrate his stories at Kalki Dham, where he will be respected.”

He also referenced revered figures from Indian tradition, noting, “Sanatan Dharma has always respected saints from all backgrounds, such as Valmiki and Ravidas. How can we stop someone from narrating religious stories just because they are a Yadav?”

Political Reactions

The incident has also drawn political attention, with Samajwadi Party leader Akhilesh Yadav promising financial support to the storyteller and raising questions about caste-based discrimination. Acharya Pramod Krishnam, however, accused Akhilesh Yadav of attempting to divide Hindus for political gain ahead of the 2027 state elections. “Akhilesh Yadav wants to separate the Yadavs from Sanatan Dharma for electoral advantage,” he claimed.

Legal Angle

While religious and political leaders debate the broader implications, the police have registered a case against the storyteller for possessing fake identification documents. Acharya Pramod Krishnam clarified, “If anyone has broken the law, the law will take its course. But there should be no discrimination in narrating religious stories—anyone with spiritual knowledge can do so, regardless of caste or even religion.”

The Etawah incident has reignited debates over caste, religion, and politics in Uttar Pradesh. As investigations continue, religious leaders urge unity within Sanatan Dharma, while political leaders grapple with the incident’s implications for the upcoming elections.