Statue of B R Ambedkar Vandalized in Rohtak Village, Sparking Outrage and Protests
Tension gripped Khairdi village in the Kalanaur block of Rohtak district after unidentified miscreants vandalized a statue of Dr. B R Ambedkar. The incident, which occurred around 10 pm on April 8 at Sadbhavana Sthal, has triggered widespread outrage and protests among local residents.
Villagers Demand Immediate Arrest of Culprits
Angry locals met with Superintendent of Police Gaurav Rajpurohit, demanding the swift apprehension of those responsible for the act. Khairdi residents alleged that the vandalism was an attempt to disturb communal harmony in the village, warning that their protest would continue until the accused are arrested.
As news of the vandalism spread, villagers gathered at the site and began demonstrating. The situation escalated, leading to heightened tension between the community and police forces. A sit-in protest was launched, with some women even threatening to consume poison if the perpetrators were not brought to justice.
Symbol of Unity Damaged Ahead of Ambedkar Jayanti
The statue of Dr. B R Ambedkar was installed alongside one of Sir Chhotu Ram at Sadbhavana Sthal as a symbol of unity and communal harmony. Sonu, a zila parishad member, expressed concern that anti-social elements are trying to disrupt the peaceful environment, particularly with Ambedkar Jayanti approaching on April 14.
"Some anti-social elements are trying to disrupt the peaceful environment of the village, especially ahead of Ambedkar Jayanti on April 14," Sonu stated, adding that the incident has strained relations between villagers and the administration.
Police Response and Community Actions
SP Gaurav Rajpurohit assured villagers that four police teams have been deployed to track down the accused, promising their imminent arrest. However, Pradeep Kumar, president of Guru Ravidas Sabha, noted that despite police requesting three days to identify and arrest those responsible, no arrests have been made so far.
"We approached the SP to demand swift action. Until the culprits are caught, our protest will continue," Kumar emphasized.
In response to the vandalism, the village panchayat has already installed a new statue of Dr. Ambedkar at the site, scheduled to be unveiled on Ambedkar Jayanti. The SP has also promised to install CCTV cameras at the location to prevent future incidents and maintain harmony in the area.
The incident highlights ongoing tensions in the region and the importance of protecting symbols of unity, particularly as communities prepare to commemorate significant historical figures.
