Clashes Erupt Over Alleged Ambedkar Statue Removal in Lucknow
In a small village named Khantari in Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh, tensions ran high as clashes broke out between police and local villagers over the removal of a statue honoring Dr. B.R. Ambedkar. The situation quickly escalated as villagers reportedly began hurling stones at the police, prompting law enforcement to respond with a lathi charge in an attempt to restore order.
BJP MLA Yogesh Shukla Intervenes
Amidst the chaos, Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) MLA Yogesh Shukla arrived on the scene to mediate and engage in dialogue with the villagers regarding the unauthorized installation of the statue. Emphasizing the need for a peaceful resolution, Shukla highlighted the legal implications surrounding the placement of the statue, citing a Supreme Court order that required proper authorization for such installations.
“This is a matter of Ambedkar’s statue and we want this matter to be resolved peacefully. There was no permission to place the statue, this is the order of the Supreme Court. The statue will be kept, but there is a process and system for it; we cannot break the system. I want that the statue should be kept and the wishes of the villagers should be fulfilled and the law should also be protected, which should be kept according to the law written by Babasaheb Bhimrao Ambedkar,” stated Shukla.
Statewide Commemoration of Ambedkar Jayanti
In response to the escalating tensions, Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath has directed a special initiative to be carried out on April 13, on the eve of Ambedkar Jayanti. As part of this initiative, statues of all eminent national heroes, including Baba Saheb Ambedkar, that are installed in parks, monuments, and squares will undergo a thorough cleaning process. Public representatives, government officials, employees, and members of the general public are expected to participate in this symbolic gesture of respect and remembrance.
Across all districts in Uttar Pradesh, a series of events are scheduled to take place on April 14 to commemorate the birth anniversary of Dr. B.R. Ambedkar. As part of these celebrations, public representatives, government officials, and employees will pay their respects by garlanding statues of Baba Saheb as a mark of tribute and honor.
The upcoming birth anniversary of Baba Saheb Dr. Bhimrao Ambedkar is set to be observed with great reverence and ceremonial pomp throughout the state of Uttar Pradesh.
The situation in Khantari village serves as a stark reminder of the deep-rooted emotions and sentiments that are often intertwined with issues related to public memorials and symbols. As tensions flared over the removal of the Ambedkar statue, it underscored the importance of engaging in constructive dialogues and adhering to legal processes to address such sensitive matters effectively. The upcoming celebrations in honor of Dr. B.R. Ambedkar’s legacy are a testament to the enduring impact of his contributions to Indian society and the ongoing relevance of his teachings in contemporary times.
