Gwalior Police File FIR Against Vyapam Whistleblower Ashish Chaturvedi
Police in Gwalior have registered a First Information Report (FIR) against prominent RTI activist and Vyapam whistleblower Ashish Chaturvedi. The case stems from a complaint filed by constable Arvind Ahirwar, who was assigned as Chaturvedi's security detail. The constable alleges that Chaturvedi used caste-based abuse and obstructed him from performing his official duties.
Details of the Allegations
According to the complaint, the incidents occurred on March 4 and March 5. On March 4, Chaturvedi visited a bonsai nursery around noon. When constable Ahirwar attempted to accompany him inside as part of his security protocol, Chaturvedi allegedly stopped him, called him a "police goon", pushed him, and prevented entry. Police teams from Jhansi Road and Kampoo stations intervened to resolve the situation after Ahirwar alerted the control room.
On March 5 around 7:30 PM, a more serious incident unfolded. Chaturvedi left his residence and walked toward nearby railway tracks. When the constable followed for security reasons, Chaturvedi allegedly abused him with caste-based remarks. The complaint states that Chaturvedi then removed his clothes and stood on the tracks as a train approached. Ahirwar claims he pulled Chaturvedi away and restrained him to prevent harm. Police later transported Chaturvedi to Jayarogya Hospital with assistance from a first response vehicle.
Police Action and Chaturvedi's Response
Police have registered the case against Ashish Chaturvedi for alleged use of caste-based slurs, abusive language, and obstructing a public servant from duty. This marks the fifth FIR registered against Chaturvedi, including one from 2018 and three others in 2025. The matter remains under investigation.
Chaturvedi has vehemently denied the allegations, calling the FIR "malicious" and linking it to his activism against what he describes as a "sextortion racket" operating in the district. He stated, "I don't even know the name of the person whom police claim was my gunman. Then how can provisions under the Atrocities Act apply to me?"
He admitted to going toward the railway tracks but attributed it to severe stress from continuous police surveillance. "Yes, I went towards the tracks as I was under severe pressure and harassment. Police have kept me under 24x7 surveillance. But this will not deter me. I will continue to fight for the truth," Chaturvedi asserted.
Additional Claims and Context
Chaturvedi further alleged that constable Ahirwar was unfit for armed duty due to prior stress, claiming "Just two days ago the same policeman allegedly fired at his uncle with a service weapon. Despite that he was deliberately tasked with my security." Police officials have not commented on this specific allegation.
The case highlights ongoing tensions between activists and authorities in the region, with Chaturvedi's history as a Vyapam whistleblower adding complexity to the situation. As investigations proceed, the legal and social implications of these allegations continue to unfold.
