Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann has strongly condemned the vandalism of a BR Ambedkar statue in Amritsar, asserting that strict action will be taken against those responsible. The incident, which occurred on Republic Day, has sparked widespread outrage and condemnation across political and social circles.
Calling the act "highly condemnable," CM Mann issued a stern warning on Monday, January 27. He assured the public that no one involved in the incident would be spared and directed the administration to conduct a thorough investigation. "The incident of breaking the statue of Baba Saheb Bhimrao Ambedkar ji on the heritage street of Shri Amritsar Sahib is highly condemnable. No one will be forgiven for this. Instructions have been issued to the administration to take strict action against the culprits," Mann wrote on X (formerly Twitter).
The Chief Minister also emphasized that Punjab's unity and brotherhood would not be allowed to be disturbed by such acts.
Leaders from other political parties joined in condemning the incident. Shiromani Akali Dal (SAD) chief Sukhbir Singh Badal criticized the act, calling it a "heinous" attempt to hurt public sentiments and create divisions in society. "Strongly condemn the attempt to desecrate the statue of Dr BR Ambedkar ji at Heritage Street in Sri Amritsar Sahib on Republic Day. This shameful act has hurt the sentiments of millions. I demand stern action against the culprits and a thorough inquiry into the conspiracy behind this vile act," Badal stated.
Punjab Police confirmed on Sunday that they had arrested a few miscreants involved in the incident. According to Jagjit Singh Walia, Assistant Inspector General (AIG) of Police in Amritsar, a case has been registered, and investigations are underway to uncover the motive. "A few miscreants tried to tamper with BR Ambedkar's statue at Town Hall. We caught them, and an investigation is ongoing. The motive behind the incident is yet to be determined," Walia told ANI.
This shocking act has united political leaders and citizens alike in demanding justice and action against those seeking to disrupt communal harmony. The investigation continues as Punjab leaders vow to uphold peace and equality in the state.
