Karnataka: Ambedkar statue defaced in Kalaburagi, Dalit groups launch protest demanding action against accused

Hundreds of Dalits took to the streets and raised pro-Ambedkar slogans. During the protest a few pelted stones and vandalised a petrol bunk. The police have registered a case and have launched a manhunt for the accused.

Written By: Mahesh Chitnis

Bengaluru: A tense situation prevailed in several parts of Kalaburagi on Tuesday after a few miscreants placed a garland of footwear around the statue of Dr BR Ambedkar. Several Dalit organisations took to the streets and burnt tyres demanding action against the accused.

The Ambedkar statue was defaced on Monday night in Kotnoor village on the outskirts of Kalaburagi. Shops and establishments were forced to shut down in some of the areas of the city.

Protesters pelted stones and vandalised a petrol bunk. Several vehicles were also damaged in the violence.

Deputy Commissioner of Police Kanika Sikriwal visited the spot and paid floral tributes to Ambedkar statues to diffuse the tension.

The Dalit organisations blocked several roads in the city causing traffic congestion. A case has been registered at the University Police Station and an investigation is underway.

BJP state general secretary P Rajeev demanded action against the accused in the case.

“Whoever the accused are must be brought to the book. The police must have taken precautions to prevent such an incident. The attacks on noted personalities have increased in the state. The Law and Order situation in the state is deteriorating. The Home Minister must answer this,” Rajeev said.

Prohibitory orders in Wadi

During a procession of the Ram idol in Wadi of Kalaburagi district on Monday, a quarrel took place between the two groups. The police used mild force to disperse the crowd.

The BJP leaders were leading the procession when a hotel was vandalised as it was not shut for the day. This led to a scuffle between the two parties. The police have imposed prohibitory orders under the CrPC section of the IPC till 6 am on January 25. The situation is under control. 

Courtesy : News Nine

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