- विज्ञापन -
Amritsar: Dalit organizations have announced a shutdown in Amritsar on Monday to protest the vandalism of the prominent statue of B.R. Ambedkar located on Heritage Street near the Golden Temple complex, which occurred on Republic Day evening.
The groups are demanding strict action against the perpetrator, who has been arrested by the police. The accused, identified as Akashdeep Singh, is from the Scheduled Caste community. He reportedly used a hammer to damage the statue and set fire to the stone-carved Constitution book placed in front of it, using a ladder to reach the statue.
While the police are still investigating the motive behind this act, Amritsar Police Commissioner Gurpreet Singh Bhullar confirmed that a first information report (FIR) has been filed against the accused.
Shiromani Akal Dal MP Harsimrat Kaur Badal condemned the vandalism as a despicable act aimed at sowing discord within society and urged the public to remain calm. Former Deputy Chief Minister and Akali leader Sukhbir Badal expressed that this act has offended countless individuals and called for a thorough investigation to uncover any underlying conspiracy.
Finance Minister Harpal Cheema stated that the incident represents an attack on constitutional values and equality, assuring that the Punjab government will take strict measures against the accused.
Congress MP Gurjeet Singh Aujla also urged swift action from the government to protect Ambedkar’s legacy, which he believes is foundational to democracy.
Meanwhile, BJP General Secretary Tarun Chugh criticized the AAP government for failing to maintain law and order, suggesting that the administration is neglecting its responsibilities while such incidents occur openly.
