Political row erupts at Bhungaria fair in Chhotaudepur over display of party flags

Politics has heated up at a traditional Bhungaria fair held during the Holi festivities in Chhotaudepur, after leaders of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) were seen carrying party flags at the event, triggering sharp reactions from the opposition.

The controversy erupted at the Bhungaria fair organised at the ‘Rural Haat’ in Rajuvaant village of Chhotaudepur taluka. The fair, which has been held for the past five years with the support of social workers, attracts a large number of tribal visitors from Gujarat and neighbouring Madhya Pradesh due to its location along the state border. This year, however, the presence of BJP MP Jashubhai Rathwa and other party leaders waving BJP flags during cultural programmes drew criticism from various quarters.

Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) leader and Chhotaudepur Assembly in-charge Vinu Rathwa strongly objected to the incident, accusing the BJP of giving a political colour to a social and cultural gathering. He said the Bhungaria fair is a part of the tribal community’s cultural heritage, preserved through collective efforts of social activists, and should not be used as a platform for political promotion.

“If all political parties start bringing their flags to such social events, it will create divisions and tension among people. Who will take responsibility if clashes erupt?” Rathwa asked, warning against turning cultural fairs into political arenas.

He further stated that political parties are free to campaign with flags during elections, but traditional cultural events should be kept free from political influence. Rathwa also warned of strong protests if party flags are displayed at future Bhungaria fairs, saying such actions amount to disrespecting tribal culture.

With elections approaching and political activity intensifying in the tribal belt, the controversy surrounding the Bhungaria fair is expected to escalate further in the coming days.