In a surprising turn of events in Mauganj, Madhya Pradesh, BJP MLA Pradeep Patel issued an unusual directive: a villager seeking a new electricity transformer must first quit his habit of chewing gutkha (a type of chewing tobacco). This directive has drawn mixed reactions, with some praising the decision while others question it.

The Unusual Punishment

The incident unfolded during the MLA’s public hearing session when a young man approached Patel to request a new transformer for his village. However, the villager was chewing gutkha in front of the MLA, which angered Patel. Rather than addressing the transformer request, the MLA asked the man to first quit his gutkha habit, adding that the village would not receive a new transformer until he did.

A Phone Call to the Man’s Mother

Taking his approach further, Patel called the man’s mother, questioning why she hadn’t persuaded her son to quit gutkha. In response, the mother told the MLA, “You are the authority; maybe he will listen to you.” Following this exchange, the MLA issued his decree: the transformer would only be installed when the man quit gutkha.

Viral Video and Public Reaction

The video of this exchange quickly went viral on social media, with mixed reactions. Some users on platforms like X (formerly Twitter) praised Patel’s actions, noting the public nuisance caused by gutkha and tobacco use. “This is a great step; public places are often littered with gutkha stains,” commented one user.

MLA Pradeep Patel: Known for Unique Approaches

MLA Pradeep Patel has previously gained attention for his unconventional methods and bold stances. Recently, he was seen bowing in a viral video at the police superintendent’s office to urge strict action against drug peddlers. Known for taking unconventional actions, Patel’s previous videos have shown him traveling by public bus and motorbike and even staging protests against his own government’s policies.

This unique directive has once again brought Pradeep Patel into the limelight, sparking a discussion on using authority to influence positive behavioral changes among constituents. Whether or not this gutkha ban will lead to a transformer installation remains to be seen.