Tensions escalated in various parts of Kalaburagi on Tuesday following the disrespectful act of placing a footwear garland around the statue of Dr BR Ambedkar by unidentified miscreants. The incident, which occurred in Kotnoor village on the outskirts of Kalaburagi on Monday night, led to widespread protests by Dalit organizations.
Protesters took to the streets, burning tyres, and demanding swift action against the accused. Shops and establishments in some areas of the city were forcefully closed. The unrest resulted in stone-pelting, vandalism of a petrol bunk, and damage to several vehicles.
Deputy Commissioner of Police Kanika Sikriwal visited the site to pay floral tributes to the Ambedkar statues, aiming to ease tensions. A case has been registered at the University Police Station, and investigations are underway.
BJP state general secretary P Rajeev called for decisive action against the culprits, expressing concern over the increasing attacks on notable figures in the state.
“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 stated.
In another incident during a Ram idol procession in Wadi of Kalaburagi district on Monday, a quarrel between two groups led to the vandalization of a hotel. Prohibitory orders under the CrPC section of the IPC have been imposed until 6 am on January 25 in Wadi to maintain control.
