No Shoes Until Roads Are Built: BJP MLA’s Protest Highlights Rural Infrastructure Gaps

BJP MLA Ghanshyam Chandravanshi has announced a symbolic protest over poor road conditions in his Kalapipal constituency of Shajapur district , pledging not to wear shoes or slippers until roads are constructed.

The MLA made the announcement in the presence of Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Mohan Yadav during a programme where projects worth ₹30 crore were inaugurated and launched. Raising concerns over damaged roads, Chandravanshi said he would continue his pledge even if repairs took 10 years .

The move highlighted ongoing concerns over local infrastructure and road connectivity , which remain key issues affecting rural transport, access to services, and economic activity. The remarks reportedly left some leaders on the stage uncomfortable, while several attendees supported the MLA’s stand.

Responding to the statement, CM Mohan Yadav said the MLA had spoken emotionally and advised that there was no need to give up footwear for a development cause. He defended the government’s record, stating that Madhya Pradesh had built over five lakh kilometres of roads .

The incident echoed a 2022 protest by former minister Pradyuman Singh Tomar , who had walked barefoot in Gwalior demanding road repairs before ending his pledge after 66 days. The latest episode has renewed debate over infrastructure delivery and governance at the grassroots level .