Vandalism of Ambedkar Statue Sparks Shutdown Call in Amritsar
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Synopsis
Dalit organizations in Amritsar have called for a shutdown to protest the vandalism of B.R. Ambedkar's statue near the Golden Temple on Republic Day. The accused has been arrested, prompting demands for strict action and investigations into the motives behind this attack on a symbol of equality.
Key Takeaways
- Dalit organizations have called for a shutdown in Amritsar.
- The statue of B.R. Ambedkar was vandalized on Republic Day.
- The accused, Akashdeep Singh, has been arrested.
- Political leaders are demanding strict action against the vandal.
- Investigations are ongoing to determine the motive behind the act.
Amritsar, Jan 27 (NationPress) Members of Dalit organizations have announced a complete shutdown in Amritsar on Monday to express their outrage over the defacement of the iconic B.R. Ambedkar statue located on Heritage Street, adjacent to the Golden Temple complex, which occurred on the evening of Republic Day.
They are calling for severe action against the individual responsible, who has been arrested by law enforcement.
As per the police statement, the suspect, Akashdeep Singh, is from the Scheduled Caste community. He allegedly used a hammer to damage the statue and ignited the stone-carved Constitution book positioned in front of it by applying flammable materials. He accessed the statue using a ladder.
The police are still investigating the motives behind this incident. Amritsar Police Commissioner Gurpreet Singh Bhullar confirmed that a first information report (FIR) has been filed and the suspect is now in custody.
In light of the situation, Shiromani Akal Dal MP Harsimrat Kaur Badal urged the public to remain calm, labeling the vandalism of Babasaheb Ambedkar's statue in Amritsar as deplorable and indicative of a conspiracy aimed at sowing discord within society and creating unrest in Punjab. She emphasized the need for a strong response to such actions.
Former Deputy Chief Minister and Akali leader Sukhbir Badal stated, “This atrocious act has wounded the feelings of countless individuals. I demand strict punishment for the offender and a comprehensive investigation to uncover the motives behind this disgraceful act. Let’s unite against these reprehensible efforts to fragment our society.”
In response to the incident, Finance Minister Harpal Cheema remarked, “This act is an assault on the principles of our Constitution and on equality. The perpetrator has been apprehended, and the Punjab government will ensure stern measures are taken against him.”
Local MP and Congress leader Gurjeet Singh Aujla called for immediate action from the government and authorities against those responsible, asserting that Ambedkar's legacy is fundamental to our democracy, and it is our obligation to safeguard and respect it.
BJP National General Secretary Tarun Chugh criticized the AAP government for the declining law and order situation. He stated, “The Punjab AAP government under Bhagwant Mann is complacent. Law and order has worsened. The Chief Minister is preoccupied with tourism while the statue of B.R. Ambedkar is being vandalized and the Constitution disrespected, right outside a police station,” he told reporters.
Further investigations are ongoing.
