Ambedkar statue vandalised in UP's Ballia

Ballia (UP): Tension erupted in Gadwar after unidentified miscreants allegedly damaged a statue of Bhimrao Ambedkar, police said on Friday.

Officials reported that the statue, located along Gadwar-Nagra Road in Rampur Asli village, was found with a broken finger on Wednesday night. This marks the fifth incident of vandalism targeting Ambedkar statues in the area, sparking anger among villagers.

Following the incident, Sub- Divisional Magistrate Ravi Kumar, City Circle Officer Mohammad Usman, and other police and administrative officials visited the site on Thursday.

Villagers submitted a five-point memorandum demanding immediate action against the culprits, construction of a protective boundary wall, and installation of CCTV cameras. Officials assured strict action and appealed to the community to maintain peace.

Station House Officer Hitesh Kumar said the damaged statue has been repaired and CCTV cameras installed. "The situation is peaceful and under control,' he added.

An FIR has been registered against unidentified individuals under relevant sections of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, 2023, based on a complaint lodged by a villager.