LUCKNOW, Aug. 6 -- Apni Janta Party chief and former minister Swami Prasad Maurya was allegedly slapped during a welcome programme at Saras crossing in Rae Bareli district on Wednesday afternoon. The incident occurred while Maurya was being garlanded during the event.

The two were reportedly beaten by Maurya's supporters before being rescued by local police.

Rae Bareli City circle officer (CO) Amit Singh said, "Maurya is safe and has not sustained any injuries. The attackers received facial and head injuries after being assaulted by his supporters. Both have been taken into custody."

According to officials, two individuals approached Maurya from behind and slapped him on the head. They were later identified as Rohit Dwivedi and Shivam ...