Caste Row in Uttar Pradesh: Kathavachak Assault in Etawah Sparks Political and Social Uproar | ABP NEWS

A major controversy has erupted in Uttar Pradesh's Etawah district after two kathavachaks (religious storytellers) were allegedly assaulted in Dadarpur village for hiding their caste identities. The incident began when locals accused the two of claiming to be Brahmins while they were allegedly from the Yadav community. The men were beaten, their heads forcibly shaved, and videos of the act went viral. This incident has snowballed into a political and social flashpoint. Thousands from Yadav organizations protested, alleging caste-based violence. In response, Brahmin organizations have now planned counter-protests, prompting the administration to deploy heavy security and conduct foot marches in the village. Nineteen individuals have been detained for attempting to disrupt public order. A new video from January 21 has surfaced, showing villagers questioning one of the kathavachaks, Mukutmani. Meanwhile, fresh allegations of molestation by local women have emerged. Police have registered cases and arrested four individuals, while investigations revealed the kathavachak possessed two Aadhaar cards under different names – Mukut Singh and Mukutmani Agnihotri – raising further suspicion. This incident has ignited a broader debate over caste identity, religious conduct, and social justice, drawing attention from political parties and caste-based organizations across Uttar Pradesh.