A disturbing incident from Chitrakoot district has ignited widespread outrage after a video surfaced on social media showing a young man being slapped repeatedly—allegedly for the “offence” of overtaking an official vehicle.
The video, now viral across multiple platforms, reportedly shows Sub-Divisional Magistrate (SDM) Rakesh Pathak, who was travelling towards Karvi, reacting angrily after a biker overtook his car on the road.
What followed was not an official reprimand or lawful action—but a scene many are calling a blatant misuse of power.
How the Incident Unfolded
According to eyewitness accounts and the visuals captured in the video, the situation escalated rapidly. After the biker overtook the SDM’s vehicle, the official car allegedly braked abruptly in front of the motorcycle, forcing the youth to stop.
Moments later, the SDM’s driver and security guard stepped out, restrained the biker, and brought him before the officer. The driver is seen slapping the youth, following which the SDM himself allegedly delivered multiple slaps.
Throughout the incident, the young man can be seen folding his hands, apologising repeatedly, and even holding his ears—a traditional gesture of submission—yet the assault continued.
Viral Video Triggers Public Anger
The entire episode was recorded by a passerby and shared online, where it quickly went viral. The visuals have sparked widespread condemnation, with many questioning how a senior administrative officer could resort to physical violence over a minor traffic act.
Social media users have expressed anger and disbelief, calling the incident an example of arrogance, entitlement, and abuse of authority. Civil rights activists and legal observers have also weighed in, pointing out that no public official has the legal right to physically assault a citizen.
Serious Questions on Abuse of Power
The incident has raised uncomfortable but crucial questions:
- Can overtaking a vehicle justify physical assault?
- Where does accountability lie when those meant to uphold the law allegedly violate it?
- What message does such conduct send to the public?
Legal experts note that even if a traffic violation had occurred, the correct course of action would have been issuing a challan or involving the police—not public humiliation or violence.
Administration Yet to Respond
As of now, there has been no official statement clarifying the SDM’s version of events or announcing disciplinary action. However, growing public pressure may force the district administration to order an inquiry.
Incidents like these often test the credibility of governance and highlight the urgent need for clear boundaries between authority and accountability.
A Moment That Reflects a Larger Concern
Beyond the individual case, the Chitrakoot incident has reopened a broader debate about power dynamics between citizens and officials. For many, the viral video is not just about one biker or one officer—it reflects a deeper concern about how easily authority can turn into intimidation.
As the video continues to circulate, all eyes are now on the administration to see whether justice will follow outrage—or fade into silence.