Rudraksh Shukla, son of BJP MLA Golu Shukla from Indore, has found himself at the center of a growing controversy following an alleged assault incident at the revered Chamunda Devi temple in Dewas, Madhya Pradesh. The incident reportedly occurred late at night last week, around 12:45 am, when Rudraksh, accompanied by a convoy of approximately 10 to 12 luxury vehicles, arrived at the temple premises with the intention of offering prayers. However, since the temple was closed for the day, priest Updesh Nath declined to grant them entry, firmly adhering to the temple’s long-standing rule that no devotees are allowed inside after hours.
Tensions escalated when one of Rudraksh’s close aides, identified as Jitendra Raghuwanshi—a resident of Dewas with a known criminal record—allegedly became aggressive and began hurling abuses at the priest. According to eyewitness accounts, Jitendra proceeded to physically assault Updesh Nath in a fit of rage after the priest remained resolute in his refusal. The shocking episode has since been brought to wider attention after a video clip showing Rudraksh and his associates standing at the locked gates of the temple surfaced on social media, triggering widespread condemnation and raising concerns over VIP entitlement and the abuse of power.
Following the incident, the temple authorities lodged a formal complaint with the police. A First Information Report (FIR) was promptly filed against Jitendra Raghuwanshi under multiple sections of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), including those pertaining to criminal intimidation, assault, and verbal abuse. Law enforcement officials have confirmed that Jitendra’s past criminal activities are under scrutiny and will be taken into account during the investigation.
Regarding Rudraksha Shukla’s role, senior police officers stated that they are carefully examining CCTV footage from around the temple to ascertain whether he was directly involved in the altercation or merely present at the scene. They assured that no one will be spared if found guilty, regardless of political connections.
The incident has sparked outrage not only among local residents and temple devotees but also across social and political circles. Many are questioning the culture of impunity that seems to surround the children of influential politicians. Opposition parties have seized upon the opportunity to criticize the ruling BJP, accusing it of fostering an environment in which powerful individuals believe they are above the law.
As the investigation unfolds, the pressure is mounting on both the state government and law enforcement agencies to ensure a fair and transparent inquiry. Meanwhile, neither BJP MLA Golu Shukla nor his son Rudraksh has made any public comment on the matter. The silence from the party leadership has only intensified public curiosity and scrutiny. The episode stands as yet another example of the growing debate around political privilege and the need for accountability at all levels.
