BJP Mayor Vinod Agarwal of Moradabad, Uttar Pradesh, has become the center of controversy after a video surfaced showing him faking a blood donation during a drive held on Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s birthday, September 17. The footage captured Agarwal lying on a donation bed, seemingly preparing to donate blood, only to abruptly get up and leave as the healthcare worker approached with a needle. Social media users quickly criticized the Mayor, accusing him of staging the event for publicity rather than genuine community service.

In his defense, Agarwal claimed that he intended to donate but was told by the doctor that he could not proceed due to his diabetes. He labeled the backlash a conspiracy orchestrated by political rivals aiming to tarnish his reputation. “I expressed my desire to donate blood, but the doctor advised against it due to my health issues,” Agarwal explained, trying to clarify the situation amidst the growing online ridicule.

Medical professionals have reiterated the importance of adhering to health protocols for blood donation. Dr. Sangeeta Gupta, Chief Superintendent at the local district hospital, emphasized that only healthy individuals without conditions like diabetes can safely donate blood. This incident has sparked discussions about the authenticity of public service acts among politicians, especially in the context of media and social media scrutiny.